Martin Chukwunwike, the Enugu State Commissioner for Housing, has been unanimously elected as the new Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State. His election took place during the 2024 Enugu State PDP Congress, held on Saturday at Okpara Square, Enugu.
The chairman of the State PDP Congress Committee, Dr. Tony Iyoha, announced Chukwunwike’s victory, confirming that the election was uncontested. Iyoha also declared the full results of the elected State Executive Committee, officially naming Chukwunwike as the party’s new state chairman.
Chukwunwike brings extensive experience to his new role, having served as a Commissioner in the State Executive Council on three separate occasions: from 2003-2007, 2007-2011, and again in 2023 until his recent election.
While announcing the results, Iyoha stated, “By the power vested in me as the chairman of the electoral committee for Enugu State PDP Congress, I declare you as the duly elected PDP State Executive Committee.”
He praised the administration of Governor Peter Mbah for maintaining unity within the party, despite the challenges faced during the 2023 general elections. Iyoha noted, “We want to thank the government of Enugu State for keeping the PDP family united. Since the Congress began, the process has been flawless, and we thank the governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, for making the PDP family in Enugu State proud.”
In his acceptance speech, Chukwunwike expressed gratitude to Governor Mbah and the delegates for their confidence in him and the other newly elected members of the State Executive Committee. He vowed to maintain the PDP’s status as the “first choice” party in Enugu State.
“On behalf of the new Executive of PDP in Enugu State, I congratulate all those elected with me,” Chukwunwike said. “I assure you that this committee will provide unalloyed support and loyalty. Loyalty must be 100%, and I assure you that this committee will demonstrate that.”
Chukwunwike also pledged to build on the achievements of the outgoing executive, addressing any issues and ensuring the PDP remains strong in the state. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming local government elections, promising to secure victories across all 17 local government areas.
The newly elected executive members include Deputy Chairman Chief Steve Oruruo, Secretary Mr. Chukwudi Nnadozie, State Woman Leader Princess Peace Nnaji, and others.
In his farewell address, the outgoing chairman, Chief Augustine Nnamani, thanked Governor Mbah for revitalizing the PDP in Enugu State, particularly in overcoming the challenges posed by the Peter Obi factor, which had significantly impacted the party in the state and across the Southeast.
“Peter Obi’s influence affected the party’s future not only in the state but across the Southeast region. We thank God that Peter Mbah survived and rescued the party. Now, we are the party of choice,” Nnamani said.
