A delegation of the Southeast Zonal Committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has formally presented Rt. Hon. S.K.E. Udeh-Okoye as its nominee for the position of National Secretary of the party. The presentation followed a unanimous resolution adopted at a zonal executive meeting held on Monday, May 14, 2025, at the Enugu State Government House.
The delegation, led by Senate Minority Leader, Senator Osita Ngwu, submitted the recommendation to the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Iliya Damagum, who was represented by the Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Southeast zone, the delegation emphasized the significance of the nomination and the critical need to sustain unity within the party. A representative of the Southeast Zonal Executive noted:
“The Supreme Court judgment of March 21, 2025, brought closure to the leadership tussle. Following that, the PDP Governors’ Forum met and passed a resolution directing the Southeast to nominate a candidate. In our zonal executive meeting, we unanimously nominated Rt. Hon. S.K.E. Udeh-Okoye for the National Secretary position. We urge the NWC to consider this on its merit and in line with precedent.”
Senator Ngwu reiterated the Southeast zone’s historical loyalty and contributions to the PDP, highlighting its consistent delivery of governors, National Assembly members, and grassroots mobilization.
“We are not setting a new precedent—other zones have filled leadership positions mid-term. The Southeast has been the backbone of this party. We only appeal to the conscience of the NWC to support our position in the interest of lasting unity.”
In his response, Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, commended the Southeast zone for its continued dedication to the PDP, acknowledging the region’s role as a political stronghold.
He also addressed reported grievances and perceived threats of defection by some stakeholders in the Southeast, urging restraint and dialogue.
“We understand your frustrations and why you are angry. But this is your party—your political home. Leaving because of temporary setbacks would be like a landlord abandoning his house due to a leaking roof. I appeal to you: don’t make good your threat to leave the PDP. Let us fix the issues together.”
Arapaja emphasized that internal mechanisms, including the party’s Reconciliation Committee inaugurated by the PDP Governors’ Forum, were already at work to heal divisions and reposition the party.
“The PDP is the most natural and inclusive political party in Nigeria. We don’t silence opinions. We acknowledge challenges, but we’re committed to resolving them. Your resolution will be presented at the next NWC meeting and subsequently forwarded to the National Executive Committee (NEC). I believe we will find common ground and move forward together.”
He concluded by expressing confidence in the party’s ability to rebound:
“We’ve faced difficulties before, and we overcame them. With the support of zones like the Southeast, we will rise again. Let’s unite, reconcile, and rebuild.”
The meeting was attended by serving Senators and Members of the House of Representatives from Soutu East, National Working Committee members, State Chairmen and other stakeholders of the party.
