The Peoples Democratic Party has suspended some chieftains of the party in Ekiti, Enugu and Imo states over allegations of “anti-party activities.”
Those suspended include Chimaroke Nnamani, senator representing Enugu west senatorial district, Ajayi Samuel from Ekiti state, Chris Ogbu from Imo State. amongst others.
Their suspension was disclosed in a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba on Friday.
According to Ologunagba, the decision was taken after and “extensive review” of the party’s activities in the country in line with the PDP constitution.
Other suspended chieftains from Ekiti are Ayeni Funso (Ekiti north), Ajijola Lateef Oladimeji (Ekiti central), Emiola Adenike Jennifer (Ekiti south II), Olayinka James Olalere (Ekiti central), Akerele Oluyinka (Ekiti north I), and Fayose Oluwajomiloju John (Ekiti central I).
“The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has after a very extensive review and consideration of the affairs of our Party in the country, pursuant to the provisions of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017) approved the suspension of Senator Chimaroke Nnamani (Enugu State) and Chief Chris Ogbu (Imo State) with effect from today, Friday, January 20, 2023, over allegations of anti-party activities,” the statement reads.
Ologunagba stated that all the suspensions were without further delay, commencing today, Friday, January 20, 2023,
Recall that Nnamani, despite being a PDP member has publicly declared his support for the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congresss (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In December Nnamani said, “I’m not looking for ministerial position because I have outgrown that. We are doing this in the overall interest of our people,” he said.
“Ndigbo are using our support for Tinubu and APC in 2023 to build bridges across the country.
“Don’t join issues with people who are resorting to insults. Just concentrate on the goal because this is a very serious business.”
Nnamani reacts
Chimaroke Nnamani reacted to his suspension in series of tweets Friday night.
He said, “I have since been inundated with telephone calls and messages from various persons, seeking my clarification on the matter.
“Just like every other person, the decision and announcement of my purported suspension from the PDP came to me as a rude shock and huge surprise.
“I was never at any time notified of any petition or complaint against me or informed of the grounds that formed the decision of the NWC of the PDP to suspend me from the party.
“My right to fair hearing was consequently violated against the clear provisions of the Constitution of the party, especially in disciplinary proceedings. More importantly the Superior Constitution of the FRN.
“I, therefore, appeal to all of you to remain calm and law-abiding, while we continue our campaign to a hopefully victorious conclusion. To God be the glory”.
Ifunanya Ikueze is an Engineer, Safety Professional, Writer, Investor, Entrepreneur and Educator.