Ani Caleb Onyema Promises to Bridge Gap Between Stakeholders and Grassroots in Enugu South Council Election

Pivotal moment for Enugu State politics, Ani Caleb Onyema, former Leader of Enugu South Local Government Area, has emerged as the candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the upcoming council elections. Scheduled for October 5, 2024, these local government elections are poised to shape the future of the region.

Onyema secured his position through a decisive victory in the PDP primary election held at the council headquarters on Wednesday. With a resounding 33 out of 39 delegate votes, he defeated his competitors. The Returning Officer, Fidelis Agbo, confirmed the results, stating, “33 delegates voted while six were absent.” He officially declared, “Ani Caleb Onyema, having satisfied all the requirements, is hereby declared the winner of the election and is returned as the candidate of the PDP for Enugu South Local Government.”

Freedom Nnam, the PDP Chairman of Enugu South, introduced Ani to party members, expressing strong confidence in his ability to lead the party to success in the upcoming polls.

In his acceptance speech, a jubilant Onyema expressed deep gratitude to Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, for his role in strengthening the party through his developmental achievements. Onyema stated, “I’m very, very delighted for this wonderful opportunity that my party has given to me to fly their flag on the 5th of October, 2024. I will be a bridge between the stakeholders of the party and the people at the grassroots.”

Emphasizing the need for unity and collective effort, Onyema called for a collaborative approach to benefit the people. He assured, “Caleb will stand for all of us because my candidature is borne out of grace, and for that reason, we’ll ensure that everybody will smile.”

Reflecting on his extensive experience and the PDP’s popularity under Governor Mbah’s leadership, Onyema voiced optimism about his electoral prospects. He noted, “We’re not just passersby; we’ve been part of the system and have worked tirelessly in the party and our society. As a former councillor of Amaechi Uno and Obeagu Uno ward, and the immediate past Leader of Enugu South Legislative House, I understand the needs of my people. My candidacy represents a paradigm shift, and we’re confident of emerging victorious.”

Onyema committed to a collaborative effort to deliver the dividends of democracy to all 13 electoral wards in the council area, pledging inclusivity with the assurance that “nobody will be left behind.”

He expressed his appreciation to delegates, the State Party Chairman Augustine Nnamani, former Anambra Governor Sen. Jim Nwobodo, the LGA party chairman, and other party stakeholders for their support. Following his victory, Onyema announced Anthony Egbo as his running mate for the forthcoming election.

The election process was closely monitored by ENSIEC officials Egbuke Osita and Collins Okoro, ensuring transparency and fairness in the selection of the PDP’s candidate.

This significant development marks a new chapter in Enugu South’s political landscape as Ani Caleb Onyema prepares to lead the PDP into the October 2024 elections.