The South East Caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is set to nominate a replacement for the recently sacked National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, according to Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, the PDP leader in Imo State and spokesperson for the opposition lawmakers’ coalition.
In a statement, Ugochinyere said that Anyanwu’s attempts to challenge the process through the courts would not hinder the selection of a new national secretary.
He expressed confidence that the replacement process would proceed smoothly, despite any legal challenges.
Ugochinyere, who represents the Ideato North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, also commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for his leadership within the South East PDP.
He acknowledged Mbah’s ability to guide the party through its current challenges.
“We have already started the process in the South East PDP, with a committee meeting where we are likely to nominate a consensus candidate. Most of us, including lawmakers and party leaders, have already agreed that Ude Okoye will be our nominee for the position of national secretary,” Ugochinyere stated.
He further explained that the nomination will be submitted to the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) for approval, and will also align with the Supreme Court’s stance on party leadership matters.
According to Ugochinyere, Anyanwu’s voluntary decision to run for governorship created the vacancy for the national secretary role, leading to his removal from the position.
“The process of replacing the national secretary has begun, and the South East zone of the executive committee is meeting in Enugu. At the end of this meeting, a nomination will be made to the National Working Committee. This will be ratified at the upcoming NEC meeting. The party has already appointed an acting national secretary, and the acting secretary will be confirmed by the NWC,” he explained.
Ugochinyere continued by expressing his support for Ude Okoye, whom he believes has the backing of the majority of PDP members nationwide. He criticised Anyanwu’s actions, accusing him of aligning with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in his attempts to hold on to the national secretary position.
“Anyanwu’s actions, which we view as working in favour of the APC, have weakened the party. He has tried to remain in his position by associating with APC figures, but this era is coming to an end,” Ugochinyere stated.
He also noted the positive momentum within the party, citing the recent defection of two federal lawmakers to the PDP, a move he described as an indication of growing support for the party.
“The process to fill the vacancy for the national secretary will be completed soon, with Udo Okoye set to take the role,” Ugochinyere added. “We are looking forward to this change, as it will bring stability and progress to the PDP.”
