PDP Anambra Urges Peter Obi to Return, Cites Party’s Rejuvenation and Unity Agenda

In a strategic political move aimed at regaining lost ground and reuniting its fractured base, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State has extended a heartfelt appeal to Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, to return to his former political home. The call was made public in a communiqué issued after an enlarged meeting of the State Executive Committee (SEC) held in Awka on Wednesday, June 5.

The communique, signed by the Anambra PDP Chairman, Mr. Chidi Chidebe, described the meeting as a comprehensive review of the party’s internal structure, challenges, and strategic goals ahead of upcoming elections. It urged all aggrieved and former members—particularly the highly respected former governor Peter Obi—to reunite with the PDP, which it described as “rejuvenated and restructured.”

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Open Arms for Obi: “Return Home,” Says PDP

Peter Obi, who served as Governor of Anambra State under the PDP before defecting to the Labour Party in the buildup to the 2023 general elections, remains a dominant political figure in the Southeast and across Nigeria. His departure from the PDP was fueled by internal party politics and a belief that his presidential ambitions would not be realised under its platform.

However, the PDP believes the tides have changed. “The committee extends an open invitation to all aggrieved and former members of the PDP in Anambra, particularly our revered former governor, Mr. Peter Obi, to return home and reunite with the now rejuvenated and restructured PDP,” Chidebe stated.

He emphasized that alliances with political formations lacking ideological compatibility are unlikely to produce sustainable outcomes. The clear reference was to Obi’s coalition strategy under the LP and other parties during the last election.

Rebuilding the House: A Call for Unity

The appeal to Obi is part of a broader reconciliation and reintegration strategy by the PDP in Anambra to unify its ranks and reclaim its historical position in the state’s politics. “We will gladly welcome our brothers and sisters back to join us in the collective quest for a better Nigeria,” Chidebe added.

The PDP, which has witnessed declining influence in recent years due to internal fractures and defections, appears committed to a new chapter of inclusiveness and ideological coherence. By reaching out to former leaders and key influencers like Obi, the party signals a return to values-based politics and a stronger emphasis on internal democracy.

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At the SEC meeting, the PDP also used the opportunity to galvanize support for its candidates in the upcoming state elections. Chidebe urged the Anambra electorate to rally behind Jude Ezenwafor and his running mate, Francis Okeke, presenting them as capable leaders who would restore the state’s legacy of progress and accountability.

He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field, stressing the need for “a fair, transparent, and impartial electoral process.”

“The people of Anambra have always shown steadfast support for the PDP. We urge them to continue this legacy by turning out en masse to vote for our candidates in the forthcoming elections,” Chidebe said.

Internal Reforms and Party Strengthening

Beyond electoral matters, the SEC meeting addressed internal structural issues within the state chapter. The committee announced the unanimous nomination of Chief Clems Ezike to fill the vacant position of National Ex-Officio from Anambra State. Chidebe called on the Southeast Zonal Executive Committee, under Chief Ali Odefa, to ratify and forward Ezike’s name to the national leadership.

He also commended the party’s national leadership for its recent strides in resolving internal conflicts, referencing the successful National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on May 27. According to him, the outcomes of that gathering laid a strong foundation for sustained unity and operational effectiveness across all levels of the party.

Strategic Implications: PDP Eyes Southeast Revival

The PDP’s outreach to Peter Obi and other former members reflects broader strategic calculations, especially as the party seeks to reassert itself in Nigeria’s Southeast. With Obi maintaining a strong political following, especially among the youth and the middle class, his return to the PDP could be a game-changer in regional and national politics.

Political analysts view the move as a smart recalibration by the PDP in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. With the APC consolidating power at the federal level and Labour Party still forming its long-term identity, a reunited PDP under charismatic leadership could re-emerge as a dominant force.

While Obi has yet to respond to the appeal, the message from his former political home is clear: the doors are open, and the party is ready to welcome him back with open arms.