Ozigbo clarifies why PDP lost Anambra guber election, urges party’s repositioning

Emerges Anambra Man of the Year
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 6, 2021 Anambra governorship election, Valentine Ozigbo, has explained why the party lost at the poll.

He said PDP lost the election due to irregularities arising from the use of the Biometric Voters Authentication System (BVAS) machine, lack of dedication of some party members and leaders, as well as excessive use of money to derail the true wishes of the people.

Ozigbo, who spoke on the sidelines of the recently expanded emergency meeting of the Anambra PDP leaders in Awka, also backed sanctions proposed by stakeholders for those who betrayed the party during the election.

He, therefore, urged the PDP to rise to the challenge of personal responsibility, adding that although the PDP might have had leadership issues during the period, its members have the capability to deliver the party in their units and wards if they worked harder.

Ozigbo, who is the immediate past President and Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Transcorp Plc, urged party members to learn valuable lessons from the November 6, 2021 election and strive to “clean up the house.”

Lamenting that the PDP lost the election in spite of its good chances and enormous sacrifices made by several groups and individuals, he appreciated everyone, who worked hard and remained steadfast to the end.

He further advised party members to refocus and ensure that they reposition the party for more significant accomplishments in the future.

Meanwhile, Ozigbo and Chief Alexander Chika Okafor of Chikason Group have won the Anambra State Man of the Year Award after a rigorous voting process involving seven other equally prominent and successful nominees.

While announcing them as Man of the Year, organisers of the award said they were recognised for being the most impactful and inspiring Anambra personalities during the year under review.

In a letter conveying the decision and reasons for conferring the award on him, the organisers said Anambra people voted Ozigbo based on his extraordinary intellect that saw him emerge as the PDP candidate despite being a young politician.

They also commended the carriage and grace he brought to bear on his campaigns, concentrating mainly on issues of governance and shunning unnecessary name-calling throughout the election period.

The organisers also disclosed that Anambra people voted for Okafor based on his extraordinary exploits in the business world and more importantly, how he embodies the think home philosophy, increasing the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the State and creating employment opportunities for the youths.

They described Okafor’s foray into business as a demonstration of his commitment to the economic development of Anambra State and commended him for his ingenuity.

The Anambra Man of the Year Award is a yearly event to recognise outstanding Anambra personalities, organisations and brands.

According to the organisers, “This year’s edition is a special because it coincides with the 30th anniversary of Anambra State.”