The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the defection of several members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. These lawmakers recently moved to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released on Saturday, the party described these defecting lawmakers as “political puppets.” It stated they are merely carrying out the instructions of their “paymaster.” Notably, the Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, was among those who defected.

PDP Vows Legal Action and Rejects Defection

Ini Ememobong, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, issued the strong statement. He characterized the defectors as “clogs in the wheels of democratic progress.” Ememobong also labeled them “enemies of democracy.”

Furthermore, he vowed that the PDP would initiate legal proceedings against these lawmakers. The party aims to reclaim its mandate through these actions.

Ememobong stated that news of the “re-defection” had circulated across various media platforms. He noted that these members of the Rivers State House of Assembly had announced their departure from the PDP. This was for a second time.

The party recalled that they had previously defected and later reversed their decision. It then added, “The world is aware that these individuals are simply doing the bidding of their paymaster and demigod.”

The PDP further asserted that the lawmakers’ actions since assuming office demonstrate their role as “political puppets.” They represent “a clog in the wheels of democratic progress,” the statement read. The party warned that these lawmakers would be remembered as “enemies of democracy.” They have “made a mockery of the legislature,” according to the party.

“Their action is best described as a defection from APC to APC,” the PDP declared.

Constitutional Provision and Call for Unity

Consequently, the PDP announced its intention to pursue legal avenues. It plans to “activate the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999 as amended).” This step aims to recover the mandate originally secured under the PDP’s banner. The party views the lawmakers’ switch to another platform as “ignoble and surreptitious.”

The statement concluded with an appeal to all PDP members in Rivers State. It urged them “to remain faithful and resolute.” The party assured that efforts are ongoing to rebuild itself. This rebuilding focuses on “inclusiveness, fairness, and equity.”