Kehinde Fajobi
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has nullified the purported suspension of Rep Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu Ikenga by the Umuopia/Umukegwu Ward Chapter in Imo State, describing the action as unconstitutional.
In a statement on Saturday, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, asserted that the suspension violated the party’s constitution and procedures.
“The NWC declares the said purported expulsion as null and void and of no effect, not being consistent with the express provision of Sections 57 (7) and 59 (3) of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017) and laid down Rules of our great Party,” Ologunagba said.
Citing the party’s constitution, he explained that Section 57 (7) clearly states: “Notwithstanding any other provision relating to discipline, no Executive Committee at any level, except the National Executive Committee, shall entertain any question of discipline as may relate or concern a member of the National Executive Committee, Deputy Governors or members of the National Assembly.”
Similarly, Section 59 (3) provides: “Notwithstanding any other provision of this Constitution relating to discipline, no Executive Committee at any level except the National Executive Committee shall entertain any question of discipline as may relate or concern a member of the National Executive Committee, President, Vice President, Governors, Deputy Governors, Ministers, Ambassadors, Special Advisers or member of any of the Legislative Houses.”
Ologunagba stressed that no ward, local government, or state chapter of the PDP has the authority to discipline a National Assembly member without the involvement of the NWC.
“The PDP is an organised political party governed by strict adherence to the provisions of its Constitution and Rules and will not allow any individual or group at any level to violate its Constitution and Rules under any circumstances whatsoever,” he stated.
He urged party members in Imo State to disregard the suspension and continue their activities as usual.
“The NWC states that Hon. Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu remains a bona fide member of the PDP with all rights, privileges, and recognition,” Ologunagba affirmed.
He further called on party members in Imo State to remain united and committed to the party’s overall interest.
“The NWC charges all leaders, critical stakeholders, members, and supporters of our Party in Imo State and the nation to disregard the purported expulsion and work together for the good of the PDP and the people,” he concluded.