The South East Zonal Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially renominated Sunday Udeh-Okoye, a former National Youth Leader, for the position of the party’s National Secretary. This decision was communicated to the party’s acting National Working Committee (NWC) during a meeting in Abuja, where Senate Minority Leader Osita Ngwu presented the resolution on behalf of the South East caucus.

Ngwu highlighted that the renomination follows a series of internal consultations and reconciliation efforts by various party organs, including the PDP Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), aimed at resolving the dispute surrounding the position of National Secretary. According to him, after the Supreme Court issued a ruling on the matter, the PDP-GF convened in Oyo State on April 14 and agreed that the South East Zonal Executive Committee should take responsibility for nominating a suitable candidate for the role.

Acting on that mandate, the zonal committee held a meeting at the Enugu State Government House on May 14, during which they unanimously endorsed Udeh-Okoye as their preferred candidate. Ngwu appealed to the party leadership to consider the request, emphasizing the loyalty and electoral strength the South East zone has historically contributed to the PDP. He stated that the zone has consistently delivered elected officials to the party and remains committed to reclaiming its political relevance.

Ngwu urged that the renomination should be seen as part of broader efforts to stabilize and reposition the party for success in future elections. He emphasized the need for unity and reconciliation, noting that the South East’s priority is to find lasting peace within the PDP.

In response, acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, represented by Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja, acknowledged the concerns and reaffirmed the party’s determination to resolve internal issues. He encouraged members not to abandon the party despite frustrations, likening it to a homeowner fixing problems rather than abandoning their house. Damagum assured that the resolution would be submitted to the National Executive Committee during its upcoming meeting on May 27 and expressed confidence in the PDP’s ability to overcome its current challenges.