Odefa’s re-election will address crisis in Southeast PDP — Party

The Ebonyi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said on Thursday that the re-election of Chief Ali Odefa as the Southeast Zonal Chairman of the party will address the crisis in the zone and reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a statement released in Abakaliki, the State Chairman, Chief Peter Nwele, noted that Odefa’s wealth of experience in governance will be greatly harnessed in the next four years to build a robust democratic institution in the zone.

He described Odefa’s win as a victory for democracy, stressing that the state has passed a vote of confidence in his leadership in the zone.

The statement read in part: “It is our great honor and privilege to heartily felicitate with Chief Ali Odefa on his meritorious victory in the just-concluded Elective Zonal Congress of our indomitable party in Enugu State on 26th February 2025.

“Our firm belief in your leadership is unwavering. We are optimistic that your wealth of experience in governance will be greatly harnessed in your next four years in a bid to build a robust democratic institution that thrives for all.

“Your doggedness in preserving the image of our great party in the Southeast is unquantifiable. As you assume your new role despite serving your first term with remarkable achievements that left an indelible mark on the sands of time.

“We will continue to assure you of our unalloyed support in building our party in the zone. As the NVC of the PDP, we urge you to focus more on party cohesion, unity, and the cooperative co-existence of the largest political organization in the West African sub-region.”

Nwele, however, assured that the party is ready to partner with the zonal leadership to ensure victory in the forthcoming 2027 general election.

He said, “As you’re aware, the PDP in Ebonyi State is deeply rooted, and we can boast of our 100% votes in the 2027 general election across all wards. We also extend our goodwill messages to other zonal officials who emerged victorious alongside other candidates yesterday.

“The PDP in Ebonyi State is faced with an enormous task, but we will defy all distractions and contribute meaningfully to its growth and sustainability. Your exemplary leadership is highly commendable; it will sustain you and bring us more dividends of democracy. We wish you greater heights in your political journey because our conviction has never been in doubt.”

Nwele also commended Ebonyi delegates for making the best choice, stating, “We are undoubtedly aware that Ali Odefa will deliver on his mandate beyond our expectations. In a special way, we commend the efforts of our wonder-working Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for making the PDP viable and competitive, ensuring that our detractors could not triumph in their delusion.

“The PDP under my chairmanship in Ebonyi State will give you maximum support for you to excel in your new assignment. PDP in the Southeast will experience a breath of fresh air once more,” he stated.