..from the office of the National Vice Chairman, PDP South East Zone
It is often said that “when the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse becomes inevitable.” This timeless truth reflects the unfortunate conduct of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, and Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State; both of whom have recently taken steps that hasn’t only undermined the constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), laws of the federal republic of Nigeria, but has also insulted the intelligence and integrity of loyal party national leadership, and members across the country.
In a widely circulated video and accompanying print report, both governors, alongside the expelled former South East Vice Chairman, Chief Ali Odefa, made certain pronouncements that can best be described by everyday Nigerian as “beer parlour declarations.” In the video, Governor Peter Mbah was seen attempting to arrogate to himself by title of “Leader of the PDP in the South East”, falsely claiming that his views represent the position of the zone. This is false, dangerous, and constitutionally unfounded.
Governor Mbah’s call for the Deputy National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, to assume the role of Acting National Secretary, and his insistence that the already postponed National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting must proceed, is a direct affront to the position of the party’s National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, the PDP Reconciliation Committee led by Dr. Bukola Saraki, and the broader national leadership of the party.
Let it be made abundantly clear:
Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu remains the substantive National Secretary of the PDP, as affirmed by relevant party organs and backed by law, process, and seen from the lens of INEC’s. The National Vice Chairman South East, in person of Hon. Goodluck Chidiebere Egwu, is also firmly in place and fully recognised. Any attempt to deny these realities is not only divisive but legally and morally bankrupt, and will never stand the test of time.
Can the NEC hold without the National Chairman, National Secretary, National Treasurer, Chairman of the party’s reconciliatory committee, and other principal officers? The answer is no. Therefore, any insistence to force such a gathering is an effort in illegality and desperation. Well, while looking at the face of governor Mbah, while making those unholy remarks, you will definitely sense frustration written all over him. Mbah, I believe should’ve known better.
It is equally important to address the troubling alliance of Governor Mbah with Senator Adolphus Nwagbara, a former PDP BOT (board of trustees) chairman suspended by his Ward, and Chief Ali Odefa, who was expelled by two federal High Court judgement and has no legal or moral standing within the party. One must ask: If Governor Mbah is truly the leader of the South East PDP as he claims, why is he consorting with individuals who have been duly sanctioned by the party and disowned by the courts? From findings, Mbah is a lawyer, let him not allow voices ask how he came about his wig. If any should respect court’s decisions, he should take the lead.
As for Governor Seyi Makinde, we must express our deep disappointment. If this is how he intends to begin his presidential ambitions, by sowing discord in the South East while maintaining calm in his South West zone, then we wish him well. However, we strongly advise him to steer clear of PDP affairs in the South East. This is a warning, not a threat.
If any of these actors are tired of the PDP, they are free to exit with dignity. What we will not accept is an attempt to destroy the house from within before walking away.
We call on all loyal and committed PDP members in the South East, and indeed across Nigeria, to remain resolute in faith, and to know that the party is far greater than a few individuals with vested interests. What you are witnessing is a desperate attempt by a few to override the will of the party’s organs and constitution, but this too shall pass. We must unite to resist such impunity with vehemence.
Finally, we urge Governors Makinde and Mbah to retrace their steps, respect the supremacy of the party constitution, the rule of law, and align with the legitimate leadership of the PDP, or risk facing the consequences of their continued defiance.
The South East PDP remains united, lawful, and committed to the survival and strength of our great party.
