Former PDP Ebonyi State Chairman, Augustine Nwazunku, Passes Away.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State is mourning the loss of its former acting chairman, Dr Augustine Alugbala Nwazunku, who passed away on 25 June 2025, according to multiple sources, including Sundiata Post and posts on X. The news was confirmed by Senator Paulinus Igwenwagu in a statement on Thursday, marking a somber moment for the party and the state’s political landscape.
Dr Nwazunku, a prominent figure in Ebonyi State politics, served as the acting chairman of the PDP and was known for his dedication to the party’s growth and influence in the region. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen the PDP’s presence in Ebonyi, a state with a competitive political environment. Senator Igwenwagu described Nwazunku’s passing as a significant loss, highlighting his contributions to the party and his commitment to public service.
Details surrounding the cause of Dr Nwazunku’s death remain undisclosed, but his passing adds to a series of losses for the PDP, which has seen several prominent figures, including former Sokoto State chairman Alhaji Ibrahim Milgoma and South-West ex-officio member Alhaji AbdulYekeen Ademola Santos, pass away in recent years.
Dr Nwazunku’s death comes amid a challenging period for the PDP in Ebonyi State. In October 2024, he was involved in a high-profile controversy, facing charges of cultism, forgery, and impersonation alongside three others. The charges stemmed from allegations that Nwazunku and his associates issued a fraudulent suspension letter against the PDP’s South-East National Vice Chairman, Ali Odefa. The group was accused of falsely presenting themselves as ward executives and was remanded by an Abakaliki Magistrate Court until 18 November 2024.
The incident sparked political tensions, with some, like Herbert Ovuta, alleging that Odefa orchestrated the arrests to destabilise the PDP in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Despite these controversies, Nwazunku’s supporters remember him as a steadfast leader who worked tirelessly for the party’s unity.
The PDP in Ebonyi State has yet to release an official statement, but tributes have begun pouring in from party members and associates. Posts on X from outlets like Peak Newspaper and Lagos Television expressed condolences, noting Nwazunku’s significant role in the state’s political sphere. “His death is a blow to the PDP family in Ebonyi,” one user remarked, reflecting the sentiment of many who viewed him as a key figure in local politics.
The loss of Dr Nwazunku follows other recent tragedies involving PDP leaders, including the assassination of Hon. Yayough Aondoakaa, former PDP chairman in Tarka LGA, Benue State, and Abdullahi Shehu Kpotun, PDP chairman in Lade Ward One, Kwara State, highlighting concerns about political violence in Nigeria.
As the PDP navigates internal challenges and prepares for upcoming elections, Dr Nwazunku’s passing underscores the need for unity and resilience within the party. His contributions to the PDP’s efforts in Ebonyi State will be remembered as the party continues to honour his legacy.
