The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected Dr. Anih Johnpaul, a former Labour Party House of Assembly candidate in the 2023 general election, as its State Chairman. Dr. Sebastine Chukwuebuka Okafor, previously the Enugu North Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was elected as State Secretary.
Dr. Anih and 28 other executives emerged on Monday during the party's state congress in Enugu, following a consensus agreement among delegates. The State Congress Committee Secretary, Engr. Echezona Ogbanufe, declared Dr. Johnpaul Anih elected after motions were moved to dissolve the acting executives and adopt the new executive list by consensus. The motions were proposed by the Acting State Deputy Chairman, Ambassador Chinachi Nnabuko Chibueze, and the Acting Publicity Secretary, Chuma Amadife.
Call for Unity and Grassroots Mobilization
In his address, Engr. Echezona Ogbanufe urged the newly elected executives to galvanize more support for the party and embrace the influx of new members. He emphasized the need for unity, discipline, and loyalty among party faithful, noting that the party's strength lies in its ability to work together toward a common goal. He charged the leadership to remain accessible to members at all levels and prioritize grassroots mobilization.
Ogbanufe also stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in party affairs, urging the new executives to uphold internal democracy and fairness. He called on them to build on the existing foundation, strengthen structures across wards and local governments, and ensure the NDC continues to grow as a formidable political force in Enugu State.
Chairman's Pledge and Appreciation
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Anih thanked the delegates for finding him worthy of the position. He pledged to lead with fairness, unity, and commitment to the party's ideals, working tirelessly to strengthen internal structures, promote inclusiveness, and position the party as a credible alternative for effective governance in the state.
Dr. Anih also thanked the party leaders, including the National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson; National Chairman, Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe; National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu; and South East National Vice Chairman, Chief Teddy Obey, for their support. He praised the outgoing chairman, Obetta, for his contributions to the party's growth and assured that the NDC will record victories in Enugu State.
Other Elected Executives
The other elected executives include: Mrs. Florence Anigbo as Women Leader; Hon. Clinton Ogbonna as Youth Leader; Barr. Chimezie Nwodo and Barr. Michael Ozioko as Legal Adviser and Assistant Legal Adviser; Mr. Emmanuel Ugwueze and Chief Rex Arum as Publicity Secretary and Assistant Publicity Secretary; and Mr. Nnejichoke Michael as State Treasurer. Others include Mrs. Chioma Agbo, Hon. John Onovo, Engr. Samuel Ugochukwu, Mrs. Olivia Okenyi, Kingsley Onochie, Barr. S. N. Egbo, Chief Austin Anih, and Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, among others.
The congress concluded before the arrival of thugs, whose activities occurred too late to disrupt the event.
