The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Barr. Steve Oruruo, has dismissed reports of a parallel congress held in the state as legally invalid and without foundation. His statement follows a media report that a faction aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike conducted an alternative congress.
Oruruo made the dismissal during the official launch of the state party’s new electronic membership registration system on Wednesday. He characterised any structures formed outside the party’s recognised processes as “null and void,” citing a subsisting Court of Appeal judgment that affirmed the suspension of certain actors and invalidated parallel arrangements.
The introduction of the digital registration platform represents a major strategic shift for the PDP in Enugu. Oruruo described it as a move from traditional mobilisation to a “structured and measurable system of party growth.” The exercise will deploy over 260 ward representatives, local government coordinators, and other officials to register members across all communities in the state.
“The strength of our party must be reflected in actual numbers, not assumptions,” Oruruo stated, emphasising that the system aims to build a credible and verifiable membership database. He acknowledged that success hinges on direct grassroots engagement, particularly in rural areas with lower digital literacy. The chairman called for “aggressive sensitisation and hands-on support” to ensure inclusive participation, stressing that commitment beyond mere coordination is essential.
Regarding broader party stability, Oruruo addressed concerns about potential deregistration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He affirmed that the PDP remains compliant with constitutional and regulatory requirements, calling such fears “unfounded.” He characterised internal disagreements as manageable disputes to be resolved through dialogue, reconciliation, and due process, while noting that legal options remain available for further judicial clarification.
Reasserting his legitimacy, Oruruo referenced a court judgment that recognises him as the State Chairman, stipulating that any leadership change must result from a properly conducted congress. The launch of the e-registration system, coupled with his firm rejection of parallel structures, signals a concerted effort by the Enugu PDP leadership to consolidate its organisational framework and present a unified front ahead of future electoral cycles. The initiative’s effectiveness in fostering a robust, transparent membership base will be closely watched as a test of the party’s cohesion in the Southeast.
