The JohnPaul Anih-led leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Enugu State has officially announced Professor Ene-Nwannaji as the party's governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made in a statement released by the party's Publicity Secretary, Emmanuel Ugwueze, on behalf of the state executive committee.
Primary Election Results
According to the statement, Nwannaji emerged victorious after defeating other aspirants, including Chinyeaka Ohaa and Gilbert Nnaji. The party's State Secretary, Dr. Sebastine Okafor, disclosed the outcome of the primary election, which was conducted across all 17 local government areas of the state, following directives from the national secretariat. The election was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure transparency and compliance with electoral guidelines.
Other Candidates Announced
The party also released the list of candidates for other positions. For the Senate, Dr. Chika Obetta was selected as the candidate for Enugu North Senatorial Zone, Dr. Mrs. Celelia Ikechukwu for Enugu East Senatorial Zone, and Barr. Mrs. Ugochi Ohajekwe for Enugu West Senatorial Zone. For the House of Representatives, the following candidates emerged: Dr. Stephen Ugwuoke for Nsukka/Igboeze South constituency; Barr. Chimezie Nwodo for Nkanu East/West; Barr. Kene Nnadi for Enugu North/South; Felix Ijegalu for Udi/Ezeagu; and Barr. Onyebuchi Nwabueze for Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani constituency. The statement added that the remaining candidates for House of Representatives and House of Assembly seats would be announced at a later date.
Party Chairman Commends Process
The Chairman of the NDC in Enugu State, Dr. Johnpaul Ani, described the primary election as well-organized and peaceful. He stated, "It was conducted in line with the guidelines of the party and the Electoral Act 2026. The conduct across the state was peaceful, reflecting a party that is serious about winning elections. You can see the calibre of candidates we elected; these are people of character, vibrant, young, and well-positioned to win the main election." He urged those who did not emerge as candidates to accept the outcome and work together with the party to secure victory in the general elections, emphasizing that attention should now focus on the January 2027 polls.
