The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State is facing internal pressures as the national headquarters considers dissolving the state chapter’s executive committee. However, key stakeholders, including the Elders Council, are vehemently opposing this move, arguing that the current leadership is performing effectively and enjoys broad support within the party. Led by former vice presidential candidate Senator Ben Obi, the Elders Council convened a meeting in Awka to address the looming threat and solidify their stance against dissolution. They emphasized the existing harmony and collaboration within the state chapter, highlighting the positive working relationship between the state executive and the national working committee (NWC).
The Anambra PDP Elders Council, comprising influential figures like former Minister of Women Affairs Mrs. Josephine Anenih and various presidential aides, issued a communiqué outlining their concerns and demands. They argue that dissolving the current executive would not only destabilize the party but also undermine the credibility of upcoming elections, including the 2025 governorship election in Anambra and the national convention. They stressed that the current executive committee was duly elected and has fostered a peaceful environment within the party, actively engaging all stakeholders and ensuring fair treatment of all members.
The Elders Council cautioned the NWC against succumbing to external pressures and misinformation, emphasizing that rumors of legal action against the state executive are unfounded. They pointed to the successful conduct of the state congress as a testament to the NWC’s competence and urged them to maintain this positive trajectory by preserving the current state leadership. The council expressed gratitude to the national executive, led by Ambassador Iliya Damagun, for their unwavering support during challenging times, further solidifying their commitment to maintaining stability within the Anambra chapter.
The heart of the dispute lies in the perceived threat to the Anambra PDP’s stability. The Elders Council maintains that the current executive committee, far from being a source of conflict, has actually fostered unity and progress. They see the potential dissolution as an unnecessary and disruptive action that could jeopardize the party’s chances in upcoming elections. They emphasized the lack of internal conflict or protests against the state executives, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere prevailing within the party. This stands in stark contrast to the narrative that may have reached the national headquarters, prompting consideration of dissolution.
The Elders Council’s appeal to the NWC is grounded in their belief that destabilizing the state chapter would be counterproductive and harmful to the party’s overall goals. They underscored the importance of maintaining the current momentum, built on the foundation of a democratically elected executive committee and a collaborative environment. They expressed deep appreciation to the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), NWC, national caucus, and the Governors’ Forum for their consistent efforts in stabilizing the party. This gratitude emphasizes their commitment to working within the party structure to resolve the current situation.
The stakeholders in Anambra PDP are urging the national leadership to prioritize stability and unity over potentially disruptive interventions. They believe that preserving the current state executive is crucial for maintaining a strong and cohesive party structure, particularly in the lead-up to important elections. They see the current executive as a stabilizing force and warn against any action that could fracture the party and weaken its electoral prospects. The Elders Council’s strong opposition to the proposed dissolution highlights the significant internal dynamics at play within the Anambra PDP and the crucial role that local stakeholders play in shaping the party’s future.
