As the deadline for the sale of nomination forms for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Anambra governorship primary elapsed, no aspirant has purchased the N40 million expression of interest and nomination forms.
The PDP initially scheduled the sale of forms from February 24 to March 5, with a submission deadline of March 7. The party’s primary election is slated for April 5, followed by an appeal committee sitting on April 8.
Party insiders attribute the lack of interest to ongoing internal crises, which have raised concerns among aspirants about the party’s stability. A PDP source, who spoke anonymously, stated that the leadership crisis at various levels has weakened confidence in the party’s ability to conduct a fair primary.
“As of now, no aspirant has obtained the PDP nomination forms. The instability within the party has made them hesitant to invest such a significant amount,” the source said.
In response, the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) has extended the deadline for the sale of forms to March 10 to encourage participation. A stakeholders’ interactive session is also scheduled for the same day at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
The party’s internal disputes have been exacerbated by a legal battle over the position of National Secretary, involving Senator Samuel Anyanwu and former National Youth Leader Sunday Ude-Okoye. The Supreme Court is set to hear the case on March 10. Additionally, a controversial South-South zonal congress held on February 22, without the approval of PDP governors, has deepened divisions within the party’s leadership.
PDP National Deputy Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha, acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic about the party’s chances in Anambra. “Yes, there are unresolved issues, but PDP has structures across the country, and these matters will be settled soon,” he said.
However, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, suggested that a broader disillusionment with Nigeria’s electoral process is also a factor discouraging aspirants. “People are tired of investing millions in an election process that lacks credibility. Even if you win fairly, political interference can overturn results,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that the Anambra governorship election will take place on November 8, 2025.
Attempts to reach PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and the National Organising Secretary for comments were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to calls or messages.
