Veteran Broadcaster Anastasia Uchenna Emerges PDP Candidate for Aba Central, Promises Youth and Trader Empowerment

Former broadcaster and media personality Anastasia Odochi Uchenna has formally stepped into active politics, emerging as the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for Aba Central State Constituency following the party’s primary election.

Speaking during a radio interview on Magic fm flagship program People and Politics, Anastasia described her transition from political commentary to direct participation as “adventurous.

“My transition from political commentary to active politics has been adventurous because the realities within politics are different from public perception.” – Anastasia said

The former radio host expressed gratitude to supporters who had followed her 13-year broadcasting career in Aba, apologising for her sudden departure from the airwaves and explaining that her decision to contest required her to withdraw from political commentary.

According to her, support received since her declaration has cut across party lines, with followers reaching out to volunteer and participate in her campaign.

Reflecting on the PDP primary, Anastasia said she emerged victorious after what she described as overwhelming support from party members and leadership. She acknowledged several party stakeholders and local officials whom she credited for easing her integration into the political structure.

Addressing public questions over her decision to contest under the PDP rather than parties such as the Labour Party or other platforms, Anastasia argued that political structure remains critical to electoral success.

“Political structure remains critical to electoral success, and established political networks with ward-level organisation give candidates operational advantages during elections, PDP has strong structure on ground” – she said

In one of her strongest political observations, Anastasia alleged that inadequate grassroots representation contributed to the poor performance of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in the 2023 election cycle, claiming the absence of agents in many wards created opportunities for vote manipulation.

She further argued that Nigerian voters are increasingly prioritising individuals over political parties, citing what she described as growing dissatisfaction with elected officials who later defect from their parties.

Drawing from her experience in Aba politics, Anastasia said residents tend to support personalities and performance records rather than party labels.Outlining her agenda, the PDP candidate said her focus would extend beyond women’s issues to include broader support for vulnerable groups, local traders and youth empowerment.

“My agenda goes beyond women’s issues to include vulnerable groups, local traders and youth empowerment.” – She added Among her proposals is legal support for apprentices and young workers involved in the region’s apprenticeship system who, she said, are denied settlement or compensation after years of service.

Anastasia also clarified that Aba Central State Constituency comprises eight wards across Aba North and Aba South and urged eligible voters to verify their registration details and transfer voting locations where necessary.

She called on supporters and volunteers to engage through her social media platforms and campaign channels ahead of the next election cycle.