PDP expels Nyesom Wike and other members over anti-party activities, insisting its national convention was legally compliant and properly conducted.
A former spokesman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential campaign council, Umar Sani, has described the expulsion of Nyesom Wike and other high-profile party figures as “better late than never.”
Also read: Bode George Rejects PDP Convention Suspension
Speaking on Arise News’ Morning Show, Sani defended the timing of the disciplinary actions, noting that the party had initially attempted internal reconciliation through the Ambassador Hassan Adamu Committee, which aimed to mediate disputes among party members.
He added that Wike himself had proposed that the party not field a presidential candidate in 2027, a condition the PDP could not accept.
Sani also clarified confusion regarding INEC’s presence at the convention, explaining that national election observers, not INEC officials, were introduced at the event. He emphasized that while INEC may monitor conventions, its presence is not legally mandatory, citing previous examples such as the Labour Party.
The PDP’s national convention, held in Ibadan, Oyo State, elected Kabiru Turaki as National Chairman and Taofeek Arapaja as National Secretary. During the convention, several members were expelled over alleged anti-party activities, including:
- Nyesom Wike – FCT Minister
- Samuel Anyanwu – Suspended National Secretary
- Kamaldeen Ajibade – Former National Legal Adviser
- Ayo Fayose – Former Ekiti State Governor
- Austin Nwachukwu – Imo PDP Chairman
The motion for their expulsion was moved by former PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Bode George, seconded by Bauchi State PDP Chairman, Samaila Buga, and endorsed by delegates through a voice vote.
Sani reaffirmed that the PDP’s convention was conducted in compliance with statutory requirements, including a 21-day notice and adherence to a court order from Justice A.L. Akintola of the Oyo State High Court.
Also read: Tension Rises Ahead of PDP National Convention in Ibadan
He stressed that these steps ensure the party’s legal standing while addressing internal dissent and reaffirming discipline within its ranks.
