The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing a significant challenge in attracting aspirants for the upcoming Anambra governorship election. Despite setting a deadline for the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms, no aspirant has come forward to purchase the forms, which cost N40m.

Internal Crisis Hampers PDP’s Chances

A source within the PDP revealed that the party’s internal crisis is the primary reason aspirants are hesitant to invest in the platform. The ongoing leadership crisis has weakened the party’s influence across different levels, making aspirants cautious about spending such a huge sum. “As of now, no aspirant has purchased the PDP Anambra governorship nomination forms. They are hesitant due to the party’s instability,” the source stated.

Revised Election Timetable

In response to the situation, the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) has revised the election timetable, extending the sale of forms to March 10 to encourage participation. “The NWC is reviewing the issues, and a revised timetable will be made public before the end of the week. The deadline for purchasing forms has now been extended to March 10,” a party official disclosed.

Stakeholders’ Interactive Session

A stakeholders’ interactive session with the NWC is scheduled for March 10 at the PDP national headquarters, Wadata Plaza, Abuja. This meeting aims to address the party’s internal issues and find a way forward.

PDP’s Internal Troubles

The PDP’s internal troubles have worsened due to a dispute over the National Secretary position, with Senator Samuel Anyanwu and former National Youth Leader, Sunday Ude-Okoye, battling for the role. The case is scheduled for hearing and judgment at the Supreme Court on March 10.

Controversial South-South Zonal Congress

The situation escalated further after a controversial South-South zonal congress held on February 22, which lacked the approval of PDP governors, creating more divisions within the Board of Trustees, National Working Committee, and National Executive Committee.

Optimism Amidst Crisis

Despite the challenges, PDP National Deputy Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha, remains optimistic about the party’s chances in Anambra. “I am not surprised by the situation, but I know the National Organising Secretary has set the ball rolling for the governorship election,” Osuoha told The PUNCH.

Wider Disillusionment with Electoral Process

However, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, argued that the wider disillusionment with Nigeria’s electoral process is the main reason aspirants are reluctant to contest. “People are tired of investing millions in an election process that lacks credibility. Even if you win fairly, political interference from the presidency can overturn results. That’s why many are hesitant,” Osadolor stated.

INEC Confirms Election Date

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that the Anambra State governorship election will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

Conclusion

The PDP’s struggles to attract aspirants for the Anambra governorship election highlight the party’s internal challenges. As the party works to address its issues, it remains to be seen whether it can overcome its current woes and present a strong candidate for the election.