The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally submitted the names of Ugochukwu Ezenwafor and Gilbert Okeke to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as its candidates for the 2025 Anambra State governorship election.
Ezenwafor was nominated as the party’s governorship flagbearer, while Okeke was listed as his running mate. The submission followed the conclusion of the party’s primary election held amidst internal wrangling and factional disputes within the state chapter.
INEC’s confirmation of the nomination was disclosed through official party communication channels on Tuesday, signifying PDP’s readiness to participate in the upcoming November poll despite ongoing legal tussles over authentic leadership within the state chapter.
Ezenwafor, a former aide to ex-governor Peter Obi and a familiar name in Anambra’s political circles, is seen by observers as a unifying figure, though concerns persist about the PDP’s internal cohesion ahead of the fiercely contested election.
Party insiders have expressed hope that the emergence of Ezenwafor and Okeke will reposition the PDP as a viable alternative in a state currently governed by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Political analysts say the PDP’s decision to proceed with the nomination despite unresolved internal disputes may either consolidate its standing or deepen rifts ahead of the main election.
Meanwhile, INEC has continued preparations for the Anambra 2025 governorship poll, reaffirming its commitment to a free, fair, and credible election.
