The factional National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party, aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has inaugurated a new caretaker committee for Enugu State.
The event, held in Enugu on Sunday, was overseen by the factional acting PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Abdulraham Mohameed, and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
The event drew a large turnout of party members from the 17 local government areas.
The development followed the exit of Governor Peter Mbah from the party to join the All Progressives Congress.
Mbah, on October 24, 2025, joined the APC alongside his executive council members and the leadership of the PDP in the state.
The move ended PDP’s dominance in Enugu State, as the party lost out for the first time since 1999.
Recalibrating the PDP on Sunday, former Chairman of Igboeze South Local Government Area, Vitus Okechi, assumed office as chairman of the caretaker committee, while Chukwunonye Okereke was inaugurated as secretary.
In his remarks, Okechi stressed unity, loyalty, and the revival of the PDP’s longstanding political dominance in the state.
“Enugu State is PDP, and PDP is Enugu State. We appreciate those who refused to defect despite challenges. Your loyalty will be rewarded. Returning to the Lion Building in 2027 is fait accompli.”
He added that the party’s mobilisation strategy would be “efficient, smart and relentless,” aimed at rebuilding grassroots structures.
Okereke emphasised the need for integrity and inclusive leadership as the party works toward rejuvenation.
“We are committed to a recalibrated PDP driven by honesty, appreciation of members, and proper administrative competence,” he said.
Immediate past vice chairman of the party, Dr Okey Ozoani, commended the NWC for entrusting the new team with leadership, describing it as a chance to correct past missteps.
“The current political situation arose from an alien leadership disconnected from the PDP family,” he stated, adding that “2027 offers us an opportunity to restore our legacy.”
Another stakeholder, Dr Nnamdi Onyia, urged members to remain steadfast, noting that loyalty and consistency remain the foundation of political reward.
Other dignitaries present, including Prof (Mrs) Iloh, Celine Ugwu, Chizoba Ezeagor, Chief Ken Obiora, Chief Chukwujekwu Nebo, and Chief Obiora Ugwu, expressed confidence in the new leadership and encouraged the party to remain focused on rebuilding.
Goodwill messages emphasised the immediate reactivation of structures across all 260 wards ahead of future electoral contests.
Credit: Punch