The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on voters in Anambra State to come out en masse and cast their votes for the party’s candidates in the August 16 by-election in the state.

Chairman of PDP in Anambra State, Chidi Chidebe, said this while speaking in Awka on Thursday.

Mr Chidebe said they should vote for Chris Uba and Nkiruka Victor, its candidates in the Anambra South Senatorial District by-election and Onitsha 1 State Constituency, respectively.

He said the national leadership of the PDP under Umar Iliya Damagum had directed members to use their strength and spread to deliver candidates of the party in the by-election as part of efforts to return it to winning ways.

He reiterated that the PDP was not in alliance or coalition with any individual, group, or political party, urging them to vote PDP and protect its votes.

“PDP calls on all members, supporters, and lovers of our party to turn out massively and give unequivocal support to our candidates. Our candidates are Chief Chris Uba for Anambra South Senatorial District and Nkiruka Victor for Onitsha North I State Constituency.

“Any official who fails to comply with this directive shall be deemed to have engaged in anti-party activity, in contravention to the provisions of its end; such infractions will attract appropriate sanctions,” he said.

Mr Chidebe urged members of PDP and supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with electoral laws and cooperate with security agencies and the electoral umpire to ensure a free, fair, and credible process.

He urged them to be at their polling units in time, be organised, assist the elderly and persons with disabilities, protect their votes and ensure their votes were counted.

He said, “We are a party of order and progress. Avoid provocations, report incidents to the ward or LGA Situation; after voting, wait peacefully for counting and record the results displayed. Our energy, unity, and discipline are our greatest assets; let us demonstrate the PDP spirit of courage, organisation, and service to the people. Together, we will deliver resounding victories for Chief Chris Uba and Hon. Nkiruka Victor and open a new chapter of responsible representation for Ndi Anambra.’’

The Anambra South senatorial district became vacant following the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of the Young Peoples Party (YPP).

Also, the Onitsha North Constituency 1 seat in the Anambra State House of Assembly is vacant following the demise of Justice Azuka, who was killed by kidnappers.

Azuka’s widow, Justina, is contesting the position to complete the remaining 13 months of her late husband’s tenure. 

(NAN)