The national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Samuel Anyanwu, asserts that it is his turn to lead Imo after previous governors Ikedi Ohakim, Emeka Ihedioha, and Hope Uzodimma. Anyanwu made this statement on Saturday in Owerri during the launch of a support group called the ‘Polling Unit Movement for Sam Daddy’.

He said that all of his contemporaries who went on to govern the state emerged from “the old PDP in Imo”, adding that it would only be fair and equitable to hand him the reins when voters head to the polls next year.

“We were four strong PDP men… myself, Hope Uzodimma, Ikedi Ohakim and Emeka Ihedioha,” he said.

“As God may have it, all of the three have governed Imo state, remaining myself.

“I have come to take my turn and I believe other contestants will give way.”

Anyanwu acknowledged that political power is contested, but he said he remains focused on his ambition.

“It is true that power is not given, it is taken. I will keep my eyes on the ball,” he said.

He expressed confidence in the PDP’s prospects, saying the party is growing stronger and attracting more members.

“Luckily, the PDP today is growing stronger and more united. Our number is also increasing in thousands,” he said.

“I tell you without mincing words, PDP is the only party our people believe so much in and we won’t let Imo people down.”

Anyanwu urged members of the newly inaugurated group to mobilise support for the party in rural communities.

He also warned against electoral malpractice, adding that the PDP would deploy party agents to monitor polling units.

“Listen to me, there’s nothing they know that we do not know,” he said.

“And there’s nothing they have which we do not have. Whichever way they want it, we are equal to the task.

“But we assure them that their rigging tactics will not work this time around.

“We have surrounded our men at every polling unit who will mount surveillance on the ballot and secure it till results are announced to our favour.”

Anyanwu added that the ‘Polling Unit Movement for Sam Daddy’ was one of several support groups backing his political aspirations.

“We have so many other movements for Sam Daddy,” he said.

“We have the parent body, ‘Divine Mandate’. We have the’ Mass Movement for Sam Daddy’.

“I urge you to join forces with all of them to ensure that Imo people key into the new song.”