The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, Dr. Kelechi Anosike, has unveiled a comprehensive welfare-focused agenda aimed at addressing the rising cost of living, improving workers’ welfare, and enhancing the standard of living of residents if elected in the 2027 general election.
Speaking during a meeting with party members and supporters at the PDP Secretariat in Umuahia on Wednesday, Anosike said his administration would implement people-oriented policies designed to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship, particularly following the removal of fuel subsidy.
He observed that although the removal of fuel subsidy significantly increased federal allocations to state governments, many states, including Abia, had failed to introduce effective social intervention programmes to alleviate the burden on citizens.
According to him, Abia residents continue to face soaring food prices and a high cost of living, with many essential commodities selling at higher prices than in several other parts of the country.
Anosike explained that his campaign is built on practical solutions rather than empty promises, stressing that he presented delegates with not only what his administration intends to achieve but also clear implementation strategies.
Among the key programmes outlined by the PDP candidate are agricultural support for farmers to boost food production, an affordable health insurance scheme in which the state government would pay 70 percent of the premium while beneficiaries contribute 30 percent, revitalisation of primary healthcare centres across the state, construction of rural roads to stimulate economic activities, and the creation of employment opportunities for young people.
He expressed confidence that the same message of hope and people-centred governance that earned him overwhelming support during the PDP primary would resonate with the wider electorate, declaring that under his administration, “never again will any Abia person go to bed on an empty stomach.”
Anosike disclosed that he emerged as the party’s governorship candidate after securing about 16,000 votes against 3,000 votes scored by his closest rival, describing the victory as a reflection of delegates’ confidence in his vision for the state.
Addressing supporters during his reception at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Anosike said the PDP has regained strength, unity and renewed political momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
He thanked God for His grace and appreciated the party’s national leadership for efforts aimed at repositioning the PDP. He specifically commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, National Chairman Ibrahim Mohammed, and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu for providing leadership that has strengthened the party.
The governorship candidate described the large turnout of party faithful at the airport as evidence that Abia people are eager for a return of the PDP to power, adding that the party has rediscovered “new energy, intellectually and politically.”
Anosike thanked party stakeholders, delegates, members of the State Working Committee, State Executive Committee, local government chairmen, ward executives and supporters for standing by him throughout the primary election process.
He reaffirmed that the PDP is stronger, more united and prepared to provide a new direction for Abia State, assuring members that he is fully committed to securing victory in the general election.
According to him, the party required a candidate capable of winning both the primary and the governorship election, adding that he entered the race adequately prepared and successfully overcame every legal and political challenge.
Looking ahead to the official campaign, Anosike pledged to prioritise the welfare of civil servants through a comprehensive salary review for state and local government workers.
He also promised to clear all outstanding promotion and leave allowances owed to workers, insisting that Abia’s financial challenges stem from poor management rather than inadequate resources.
He maintained that prudent financial management would enable his administration to restructure the state’s finances, meet workers’ obligations and deliver sustainable development across the state.
Speaking during the event, the Abia PDP Chairman, Elder Abraham Ama, said the gathering was organised to appreciate party members for their unwavering support, adding that the party would unveil its comprehensive campaign agenda when the official campaign begins.
Also speaking, the PDP National Auditor, Barrister Okechukwu Osuoha, described Anosike as a capable leader and urged party members to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the election.
Other party stakeholders expressed confidence in the PDP’s ability to reclaim power in 2027, while the party’s Youth Leader, Ugwumba Adiele, pledged sustained support for the party and its candidates.
The State Woman Leader also assured the governorship candidate of the unwavering support of women across the state.
