October 07, (THEWILL) – The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voided the purported suspension of its party leaders in Oredo Local government.
THEWILL reports that a member representing Oredo Federal constituency in the National Assembly, Rt. Hon Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, was on Thursday suspended along with the Chairman of the party in Oredo Local Government Area, Oduwa Igbinosun and the Party Chairman in Ward 4, Friday Enaruna Ihama
The party’s Assistant Financial Secretary, Aroko Thomas, had said the suspended party leaders allegedly engaged in anti-party activities during and after the September 19 governorship election in the State.
But the party in a statement by its State Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, described the purported suspension as undemocratic , and falls short of the dictates of the party’s constitution.
Consequently, the party said, Mr Oduwa Igbinosun and Mr Friday Enaruna Ihama remain the Chairman of Oredo and Chairman of ward 4 respectively.
Nehikhare urged Nigerians, Edo people and especially the PDP members and supporters to ignore reports of the purported suspension
The statement reads: “The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State is constrained to react to the undemocratic, unconstitutional, unacceptable and regrettable behavior of some of its members today.
“We wish to state without equivocation that PDP being an organized and democratic Party is governed by a constitution and all its members are encouraged to get a copy and get acquainted with its content.
“Our party views the issues of suspensions of its members and elected officials very seriously. The method used in the removal of party officials and members is also clearly spelt out.
“Consequently, the events that purportedly occurred in Oredo Local government whereby a group of people without the backing of the constitution and therefore unknown to the party constitution reportedly suspended or removed the Oredo Local Government party Chairman, Mr Oduwa Igbinosun, and the party Ward 4 Chairman Mr Friday Enaruna Ihama is null and void.
“Consequently, Mr Oduwa Igbinosun and Mr Friday Enaruna Ihama remain the Chairman of Oredo and Chairman of ward 4 respectively.
“There is no gainsaying that the purported suspension of the member representing Oredo federal constituency in the National Assembly, Rt. Hon Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama is also null, void and of no consequence.
“Events leading to today’s irrational and irresponsible behavior will be investigated and those found culpable will be disciplined.
“Edo PDP is a peaceful, united and vibrant political party where dialogue is our watchword. We encourage political engagements and contestations which must be guided by the tenets of our constitution. We however frown at political indiscipline that brings disrepute to our brand.
“As a party in government we must live and operate by example. We must be seen to follow due process, abide by the rule of law and always be conscious of the message we send to the general public especially the voting population at all times. We are answerable to them!
“I appeal to our members across the state to remain calm and keep their eyes on the ball. Do not be distracted.”
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