The Anambra State chapter of the Social Democratic Party has announced plans to receive no fewer than 23 aspirants defecting from the African Democratic Congress, as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The state chairman of the party, Chinedu Ekwunife, made this known on Monday shortly after the party’s state congress held at its secretariat in Awka.
Ekwunife explained that the expected defections are largely driven by the leadership crisis currently affecting the ADC, which has created uncertainty for many of its aspirants seeking elective positions.
According to him, the situation was further compounded by the recent exit of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi from the ADC, a development he said has triggered a wave of defections among politicians in search of a more stable platform.
He noted that the SDP has been revitalised under its new leadership and is actively strengthening its grassroots presence across the state, with structures now being established and activated across all 326 wards in Anambra’s 21 local government areas.
“No fewer than 23 aspirants for National and State Assembly positions are in advanced stages of joining the SDP and will be formally received in due course.
“The congress was duly monitored and supervised by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Awka office, including Nonso Okoli and Kingsley Ajunwa, between 1:30pm and 2:30pm.
“The exercise was peaceful, orderly, and conducted in accordance with the party’s constitution and established guidelines.”
Ekwunife also revealed that the state congress produced a new State Executive Committee through a consensus-driven process, describing it as a reflection of the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
Reflecting on the state of the party when he assumed office, he acknowledged that the SDP previously had weak organisational structures but said significant improvements have since been achieved.
“Today, the SDP in Anambra has functional leadership across all 326 wards, including ward chairmen, executives, and polling unit coordinators.
“These structures are composed of committed individuals who are prepared to mobilise effectively and secure electoral victories for the party in the 2027 general elections and beyond,” he added.
