By HopeAlive Media
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 Abia State governorship election, Barr. Kelechi Anosike, PhD, has declared that local government autonomy is non-negotiable, promising that no local government council under his administration would be denied control of its constitutionally guaranteed funds.
Anosike made the declaration during a media parley with journalists at the PDP State Secretariat in Umuahia, where he criticised the administration of Governor Alex Otti, accusing it of allegedly interfering in the affairs of local government councils despite the constitutional provisions guaranteeing their financial and administrative independence.
According to the PDP flag bearer, effective governance begins at the grassroots, stressing that local governments must be empowered to initiate and execute development projects that directly impact rural communities.
“Local government autonomy is non-negotiable. The funds meant for local governments belong to the councils and should be administered by them. If elected governor, I will not interfere in local government allocations because grassroots development can only thrive when local governments are allowed to function independently,” he said.
Anosike also faulted what he described as the poor management of Abia State’s resources, insisting that the level of development across the state does not reflect the huge financial allocations received from the Federal Government in recent years.
“Abia is not poor; it is poorly managed,” he said.
He argued that governance should not be measured solely by roads, buildings and other physical infrastructure but by policies that improve the welfare and living standards of the people.
“Development is about people. Infrastructure is important, but government must also invest in human capital, create opportunities and improve the quality of life of citizens,” he stated.
The PDP governorship candidate said his administration would be anchored on a welfare-driven agenda that prioritises workers, youths, farmers, entrepreneurs and vulnerable groups.
He promised to clear outstanding promotion arrears owed to civil servants, review cases of workers allegedly retired before reaching the statutory retirement age, and reassess the disengagement of about 10,000 civil servants whom he claimed were unfairly removed from service by the present administration.
Anosike further pledged to introduce a ₦90,000 minimum wage, establish vehicle loan schemes for civil servants, provide affordable retirement housing and set up a Civil Service College to ensure continuous training and capacity development for public servants.
Describing himself as a committed welfarist, the PDP candidate said every government policy under his administration would place the welfare of citizens at its core.
“Everyone deserves the reward for their labour. Government must exist for the benefit of the people, and every policy we formulate will reflect that principle.”
Speaking on the economy, Anosike promised to revive dormant industries across the state, establish cottage industries in the three senatorial districts and reposition agriculture as a major driver of economic growth, employment and food security.
He said his administration would draw inspiration from the development model of the late Dr. M.I. Okpara by combining agriculture with industrialisation to stimulate sustainable economic growth.
He also pledged increased support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through grants and targeted intervention programmes aimed at expanding businesses and creating jobs.
As part of his blueprint for the informal economy, Anosike announced plans to establish the Abia State Informal Sector Regulatory and Development Agency (ABSIRDA) to regulate, train and support artisans, including mechanics, electricians, plumbers, technicians and other skilled workers, while exposing them to global best practices and opportunities.
On security, the PDP candidate assured residents that security votes under his administration would be transparently utilised to strengthen community policing and improve the protection of lives and property across the state.
Responding to questions on his role during previous PDP administrations, Anosike argued that earlier governments operated under severe financial constraints, receiving approximately ₦3.5 billion monthly from the Federation Account, making it difficult to execute large-scale developmental projects.
He noted that state revenues increased significantly following the removal of fuel subsidy by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that the challenge facing Abia today is no longer inadequate funding but effective management of available resources.
“Before now, many governors borrowed to pay salaries. Today, there is more money coming to the states. The difference between one state and another is leadership and prudent management.”
Anosike also expressed confidence that the PDP has overcome its internal challenges and is now united ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
“The PDP today is stronger, united and fully prepared to provide Abians with purposeful leadership. We are ready to restore responsible governance and return the state to the path of inclusive development,” he said.
The media interaction was attended by the Abia State PDP Chairman, Elder Abraham Amah, the State Vice Chairman, Enyinnaya Appolos, and other party leaders and stakeholders.
