The Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly rejected the party’s national convention held in Ibadan on Saturday. They described the exercise as illegal, declaring all its outcomes null and void.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Kenneth Yowika, the party commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The PDP noted that INEC’s decision to stay away aligned with the rule of law.
“INEC’s absence demonstrates adherence to democratic principles and respect for existing court orders,” Yowika stated.
The Rivers PDP maintained that the convention proceeded in clear defiance of two Federal High Court orders. These orders had specifically barred the exercise. This occurred even though an Ibadan High Court had later allowed it to go ahead.
The party criticized what it termed a “flagrant disregard for judicial authority.” Despite the legal issues, organisers went on to elect new national officers and dissolve some state executive committees.
“The convention is a sham,” Yowika asserted. “You cannot ignore valid Federal High Court judgments and expect the outcomes to be legitimate.”
Expressing confidence that the courts would eventually invalidate the event, the Rivers PDP urged its members to remain calm. They advised members to rely on the ongoing judicial process.
The statement further read, “This ill-advised convention cannot withstand legal scrutiny. It is already sub judice at the Court of Appeal.” The party concluded, “We place our faith solely in the judiciary and urge all members to do the same.”
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