The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate for Abia State in the 2027 election, Barr. Kelechi Anosike, says he will run a “People First, Abia Always” administration focused on welfare if elected.
Speaking with journalists in Umuahia on Thursday, Anosike said a core trait of a welfarist government is prioritising the welfare of the people, from those closest to government to citizens at large.
He faulted the current administration led by Governor Alex Otti, describing it as non-welfarist for failing to impact those working directly with it and Abians generally.
Citing the ban on commercial motorcycles, Okada, in the state, Anosike said a welfarist governor would not impose an immediate ban without providing alternative livelihoods.
“A welfarist would consider what possible lifelines exist for Okada riders so their dependants do not become direct victims of a draconian measure,” he said.
“As a welfarist, I believe in the welfare of others. I don’t take away what belongs to the people. If the law says certain benefits are due to people, I make sure they get it. A welfarist government is one that cares, works for everyone,” Anosike said.
He said his administration would introduce people-friendly policies to ease the sufferings of Abians, adding that the true measure of governance lies in welfarist policies and ideologies.
On the current minimum wage for Abia workers, Anosike said their pay was not commensurate with their input. He pledged a N90,000 minimum wage for all civil servants across board if elected, and said workers would also be entitled to car loans.
“A welfarist does not have money and watch those around him suffer,” he said, adding that his administration would establish a civil service college for workers. “A lot will be done to improve the welfare of Abia workers,” he said.
Speaking on the Supreme Court ruling granting autonomy to Local Government Areas, LGAs, Anosike promised to review what he described as “draconian laws” that allegedly prevent LGAs in Abia from controlling their funds.
He also outlined plans to revive moribund cottage industries in the state, with greater attention to SMEs, sports development, health, and agriculture under his welfarist administration.
Anosike further assured Abians that the PDP is now united and formidable, with structures down to the grassroots to win the 2027 general election in Abia.
