Prominent leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State have formally declared their non-participation in the party’s upcoming national convention scheduled for November 15-16, 2025, in Ibadan. The decision was announced in a joint statement signed by key state executives and local government chairpersons including Kingsley Waite, Tombari Sydney Gbara, Victor Pepple, Otamiri John Ngubo, and Ejekwu Princewill.
National Leadership Crisis Sparks Division
The Rivers PDP leadership cited the unresolved national-level crisis as the primary reason for their withdrawal, stating it has “polarised the party across multiple state chapters.” They emphasized that ongoing court battles have further destabilized the party’s unity and operations.
Communication Breakdown with Governor Fubara
Leaders expressed strong disapproval of the national leadership’s failure to establish proper communication channels with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whom they recognize as their “undisputed leader.” They noted this breakdown left the state chapter completely excluded from decision-making processes.
Unauthorized Use of Credentials
The stakeholders condemned the inclusion of their names and photographs in the convention brochure without consultation or approval. “We were neither consulted, nor was approval sought,” the statement read, calling the action unacceptable.
Unanimous Boycott Decision
Citing these concerns, the Rivers PDP chapter announced its unanimous resolution to boycott the Ibadan convention. They simultaneously reaffirmed their unwavering loyalty to Governor Fubara as the authentic leader of the party in Rivers State.