The Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has rejected the national convention held in Ibadan, calling the event unlawful and its resolutions unenforceable. In a statement, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Kenneth Yowika, praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for refusing to participate in the convention, saying the commission’s action demonstrated a commitment to due process and democratic norms.
The controversy stems from two Federal High Court orders that restrained the PDP from conducting the convention. Despite those orders, a separate High Court in Ibadan permitted the gathering to proceed. The party went ahead with electing new national officials and dissolving certain state executive committees, a move the Rivers State chapter dismissed as a “sham.” Yowika criticized the party’s blatant defiance of valid court orders, noting that INEC’s refusal to take part showed respect for the rule of law.
The Rivers PDP expressed confidence that the convention will ultimately be nullified by the courts, pointing out that the matter is already sub judice at the Court of Appeal. The party urged its members to remain steadfast and trust the judicial process, stating that its faith rests solely on the judiciary.
This development highlights the ongoing internal conflicts within the PDP, marked by court battles and power struggles. The rejection of the convention by the Rivers State chapter underscores deep‑seated divisions within the party and suggests that the national leadership will face challenges in implementing the convention’s resolutions amid legal uncertainties. As the case unfolds, party members and supporters will watch closely to see how the judiciary resolves the issue, a outcome that will affect the party’s internal dynamics and its preparations for future elections.
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