The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, Kelechi Anosike, has defended the party’s record in government, insisting that the PDP remains the most impactful political platform in the state’s history and is ready to reclaim power in the 2027 governorship election.

Speaking on growing political activities ahead of the polls, Anosike dismissed claims that his emergence as the party’s candidate came as a surprise, stressing that he has remained a committed member of the PDP since 2005 and has actively contributed to the party’s growth at ward, state and national levels.

He noted that although some aspirants were disappointed by the outcome of the party’s primary election, efforts were ongoing to unite members and strengthen cohesion ahead of the governorship contest.

According to him, the PDP remains united and focused on returning to Government House, adding that he has personally reached out to fellow aspirants and stakeholders to foster reconciliation and collaboration.

Anosike argued that public perception of the PDP’s years in power has been shaped by misconceptions, maintaining that previous PDP administrations achieved significant development despite operating with far fewer financial resources than are currently available to the state government.

He attributed the increased revenue now enjoyed by states to the removal of fuel subsidy and insisted that many achievements of past PDP governments, particularly in agriculture, road construction and rural development, have been overlooked.

The PDP candidate accused the current administration of concentrating largely on road infrastructure while neglecting critical sectors such as agriculture, youth development, healthcare and social welfare.

Outlining his vision for Abia, Anosike promised to establish a welfare-driven government focused on poverty reduction, job creation and economic empowerment. He said his administration would prioritise agriculture, industrialisation, entrepreneurship development and support for small and medium-scale enterprises.

He also pledged programmes aimed at improving healthcare delivery, educational development, youth empowerment, women’s inclusion and workers’ welfare, including prompt salary payments and enhanced support for retirees.

According to him, agriculture would serve as a major pillar of economic growth through farm grants, mechanised farming, revitalisation of farm settlements and extension services designed to attract young people to the sector.

Anosike further promised affordable housing initiatives, mortgage support for civil servants, rural infrastructure expansion and reforms within the justice sector, including a review of cases involving awaiting-trial inmates to ensure fairness and access to justice.

He said his administration would pursue infrastructure projects with direct social and economic benefits, emphasising investments in roads, healthcare facilities, schools and rural development over prestige projects.

Responding to questions about political sponsorship, Anosike said he has no political godfather, describing the people of Abia as his only political benefactors and the ultimate decision-makers in the electoral process.

He expressed confidence that his welfare-focused agenda would resonate with voters and position the PDP for victory in the 2027 governorship election.