The Peoples Democratic Party’s National Vice Chairman (South-South), Emmanuel Ogidi, maintains the PDP will proceed with convention preparations despite a court order halting the process. In an Arise News interview, Ogidi dismissed FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his allies as “not real PDP members.”
Defiance Amid Legal Challenges
Ogidi described the recent court ruling as “comedy” and confirmed the party filed an appeal. “We will continue our processes,” he stated. The PDP leader accused Wike’s faction of arrogance and party sabotage. He questioned their legitimacy within the PDP.
“They are not PDP members as far as I’m concerned,” Ogidi declared. He noted Wike’s absence from recent National Executive Committee meetings. “They don’t know what’s happening yet criticize leadership,” he added.
Historical Parallels Drawn
Ogidi recalled the 2016-2017 leadership crisis involving Ali Modu Sheriff. “We overcame similar challenges before,” he recounted. “This too shall pass.” He referenced previous court battles that reached Nigeria’s Supreme Court.
Addressing Convention Concerns
Regarding alleged invalid congresses in 12 states, Ogidi called claims exaggerated. “Some states had minor ward issues,” he explained. Ogidi cited Delta State’s rebuilding process after the governor’s departure. “No convention ever had all 36 states fully represented,” he noted.
On defying the court injunction, Ogidi maintained the PDP operates within its rights. “We’ll appeal and seek stay of execution,” he said. “Preparations continue until the appeal hearing.” He expressed confidence the convention would proceed as scheduled.
INEC Notification and Electoral Reform
Ogidi countered allegations about incomplete INEC notification. “We submitted our letter properly,” he asserted. He urged INEC’s new leadership to restore electoral credibility. “The Chairman must ensure fair elections,” Ogidi emphasized.
Despite current challenges, Ogidi remained optimistic about PDP’s resilience. “We’ve survived worse,” he concluded. “Our convention will hold successfully.”
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