The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced that its ward congress will take place on September 27. This event follows closely on the heels of the Local Government Election in the state, set for September 21.
The party has established the Congress Planning Committee, with Mike Ahumibe as chairman and Amby Umeh as secretary.
Addressing party members on Friday, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the PDP flagbearer in the 2023 governorship election and National Secretary, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and unity during the local government congresses. He urged members to avoid division, misunderstanding, and lawlessness, and called for decorum among aspirants and stakeholders in the 305 electoral wards throughout the process.
Anyanwu stressed that the congress should not be a platform to showcase power, flaunt wealth, or display desperation, but rather an opportunity to reconcile differences and promote the party’s ideology. He commended the leadership of the Caretaker Committee, chaired by Chidi Dike, for their efforts in uniting members and setting aside personal interests.
“The leadership of the Caretaker Committee of PDP in the state has performed optimally by bringing everyone together. One thing that is remarkable in their leadership is that Sir Chidi Dike’s led team has shunned personal interest in the discharge of their duties,” Anyanwu stated.
He highlighted the importance of empowering grassroots members to choose or elect candidates they believe in, warning against interference and imposition of candidates.
“For me as a person, I have no reason to interfere in any ward to impose anyone on them. Once that is done, it means I have failed in my responsibilities as a leader. Please, this advice goes to stakeholders in the 305 wards; allow the people to elect their choices,” he added.
Anyanwu also encouraged active participation in local ward activities to foster unity and support the party’s initiatives in the state. He expressed optimism that the PDP can regain leadership roles both locally and nationally, attributing the current turmoil across the country to the lack of genuine supporters within the ruling APC.
“Those in positions of authority are confused on what to do next to remedy the situation. In Imo State, the situation is worse and most terrible; there is no known programme of APC in the state aside from creating confusion and frustrating the masses,” he said.
Highlighting the challenges faced by Imo people under the current administration, Anyanwu criticized the handling of palliatives meant for the state and questioned the transparency of their distribution.
While inaugurating the committee, Anyanwu announced the party’s decision to accommodate up to six women at the ward level. However, he noted that in the absence of capable women, the most vibrant men may be considered for the positions.
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