The Jigawa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has condemned the suspension of former governor Alhaji Sule Lamido by the party’s Board of Trustees, calling the action unjust and vindictive. In a statement, state chairman Dr. Babandi Ibrahim Gumel said the suspension affronts justice, internal democracy, and the party’s recent reconciliation efforts. The party expressed shock and disappointment, noting that the suspension was reportedly based on allegations that Lamido attended meetings that could undermine party unity. However, the Jigawa PDP argued that exercising legal and constitutional rights within the party should not be interpreted as disunity.
Lamido had approached the court after being denied the opportunity to purchase a nomination form to contest the position of National Chairman of the PDP. A Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in his favor, restraining the PDP from proceeding with its national convention until his right to contest was determined. The Jigawa PDP viewed the suspension as a punitive measure against Lamido for seeking judicial redress on an issue where the court had found merit. The party also criticized the Board of Trustees for contradicting recent public statements by its chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, who had emphasized reconciliation and appealed to aggrieved members to return to the party.
Describing the suspension as premature and prejudicial, the Jigawa PDP warned that punishing a loyal member who sought justice through legal means sends a negative signal to other committed members. The party argued that such action undermines unity, which is crucial for effectively challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress. Consequently, the Jigawa PDP called on the Board of Trustees to immediately and unconditionally withdraw Lamido’s suspension and to affirm the right of all party members to aspire to leadership positions without fear of victimisation.
The Jigawa PDP reaffirmed its commitment to a united, democratic, and law‑abiding Peoples Democratic Party. The suspension of Alhaji Sule Lamido has significant implications for the party’s cohesion as it prepares to challenge the ruling party in future elections. The condemnation highlights the need for the PDP to prioritize internal democracy and reconciliation, and the outcome will be closely watched by members and observers for its potential impact on the party’s future.
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