As Anambra State prepares for its crucial governorship election on Saturday, November 8, 2025, political analysts are predicting a tough battle for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). With sixteen political parties competing for the top seat, the PDP faces significant hurdles that might prevent it from securing even second place in the polls.
Historical Challenges Haunt PDP in Anambra
The PDP's historical footprint in Anambra politics has weakened considerably over the years. While the party dominated the early Fourth Republic period, producing two civilian governors - Chinwoke Mbadinuju (1999-2003) and Chris Ngige (2003-2006) - its influence has dramatically declined since Peter Obi's victory with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2006.
Since that pivotal moment, APGA has maintained strong dominance in the state, with successive governors including Virginia Etiaba, Willie Obiano, and the current governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, all representing the party. This longstanding APGA stronghold presents a formidable challenge for the PDP's candidate, Jude Ezenwafor, who must overcome nearly two decades of the party's declining relevance in the state.
Internal Division Weakens PDP's Campaign
Compounding the historical challenges, the PDP's Anambra state chapter has been grappling with significant internal divisions and leadership struggles throughout late 2024 and 2025. These internal conflicts have weakened the party's organizational structure and hampered its ability to present a united front to voters.
Political observers note that the PDP's decline at the national level appears to be mirrored in Anambra State, with the party's influence continuing to dwindle at a critical time when unity and strong leadership are essential for electoral success.
Strong Competition from Rival Parties
The ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, with incumbent Governor Charles Soludo as its flagbearer, remains the party to beat in the election. APGA's continuous hold on the governorship since March 2006 gives it a significant advantage in terms of incumbency and established political machinery.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has emerged as a formidable contender, leveraging the influence of the ruling federal government. The party hopes to replicate its surprising 2024 gubernatorial election victory in Edo State, where it stunned the ruling party to emerge victorious.
With both APGA and APC presenting strong challenges, the PDP and its candidate Jude Ezenwafor face what many describe as a herculean task in the upcoming election. The convergence of historical weaknesses, internal divisions, and strong competition creates a perfect storm that could see the party struggling to secure even the second position in the polls.
