By Elizabeth Williams

FRONTLINE businessman, philanthropist and governorship aspirant in Enugu State, Samson Chukwunamani, has applauded leading figures of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for what he described as their sacrifices, resilience and strategic leadership in rebuilding and stabilising the party across the country.

Nnamani, popularly known as Odera, gave the commendation shortly after obtaining the PDP Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the 2027 governorship election in Enugu State.

Speaking on the state of the opposition party, the governorship hopeful said the PDP had continued to survive political turbulence because of the commitment and courage of some dedicated leaders who refused to allow the party to collapse despite internal and external pressures.

He particularly praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing him as “one of the strongest pillars of the PDP” whose leadership and political strength have remained critical to the survival of the party.

According to Nnamani, Wike demonstrated unusual courage at difficult moments when many members were uncertain about the future of the PDP.

“Wike remains one of the most courageous and result-oriented leaders the PDP has produced. At a time many doubted the future of the party, he stood firm, defended the integrity of the PDP and continued working tirelessly to ensure the party remains a strong and viable platform for Nigerians,” he said.

Nnamani noted that Wike’s record in governance, infrastructure development and party administration had continued to distinguish him as one of the most influential politicians in the country.

He added that younger politicians and aspiring leaders had much to learn from the former Rivers State governor in terms of political discipline, courage and administrative capacity.

The Enugu governorship aspirant also commended the National Chairman of the PDP, Abudulrahman Mohammed, for what he called his calm and stabilising leadership at the national level.

According to him, the party under Mohammed had continued to witness improved coordination and internal strengthening despite the challenges confronting opposition parties in Nigeria.

“The National Chairman has demonstrated maturity, inclusiveness and a deep understanding of party administration. His efforts toward strengthening internal democracy, reconciliation and organisational stability deserve commendation,” Nnamani stated.

He further praised the PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, whom he described as a loyal party man and committed political mobiliser working tirelessly to preserve the unity of the PDP nationwide.

Nnamani said Anyanwu had continued to make sacrifices behind the scene to ensure the smooth running of the party structure across the country.

“Senator Samuel Anyanwu has shown uncommon dedication and loyalty to the PDP. His commitment to the stability of the party remains admirable. He has continued to work tirelessly to ensure that the PDP remains united, functional and prepared for future electoral victories,” he added.

The philanthropist-politician equally paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and former governor of old Anambra State, Chief Jim Nwobodo, describing him as a father figure whose wisdom and guidance had continued to strengthen the PDP in the South-East.

According to him, Nwobodo remained one of the most respected political leaders in Nigeria because of his statesmanship, experience and enduring commitment to peace and political development.

“Chief Jim Nwobodo is a political institution on his own. His fatherly role in ensuring that the PDP remains strong and united in Enugu State and beyond cannot be overemphasised. He continues to offer wisdom, direction and encouragement to younger political actors across the South-East,” Nnamani said.

He added that the elder statesman’s mentorship and stabilising influence had continued to inspire confidence within the PDP structure in the region.

Beyond his remarks on the PDP leadership, Nnamani reiterated his determination to pursue inclusive governance and people-oriented leadership, if elected governor of Enugu State in 2027.

He said his vision for the state was anchored on economic revitalisation, job creation, youth empowerment, infrastructure renewal, institutional reforms and improved welfare for ordinary citizens.

According to him, the people of Enugu State deserve purposeful leadership capable of unlocking the state’s economic potential and improving living standards across communities.

Widely known for his humanitarian interventions through the Odera Helping Hand Foundation, Nnamani has gained grassroots popularity through various empowerment programmes and welfare initiatives targeted at widows, students, unemployed youths and vulnerable families.

Over the years, the foundation has provided scholarships, business support and relief materials to indigent persons in several communities across Enugu State.

Political observers believe that Nnamani’s growing popularity within the PDP, combined with his business background, philanthropic record and active involvement in party activities, may position him as a formidable contender in the 2027 governorship race in the state.