By Seyi Babalola
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South-south Zonal Legal Adviser, Alabh George Turner, has nullified the expulsion of Chief Dan Orbih, Philip Shaibu and Ogbeide-Ihama.
The trio was axed by the Edo State chapter of the party on Wednesday.
Declaring the expulsion unconstitutional, null and invalid, the zonal legal adviser said the action of the chapter contravened the party’s constitution.
Full text of the statement below:
“It has come to the attention of the Legal Adviser, South South Zone of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that the Edo State PDP State Working Committee, in a meeting held on Wednesday, 19th June 2024, purportedly expelled prominent Leaders of the party, including Chief Dan Orbih, National Vice Chairman South South, H.E. Rt. Hon. Phillip Shaibu, and Rt. Hon. Omoregie Ogbede-Ihama without regard to the Party’s Constitution and established procedures. As the legal adviser of the South South Zone, I declare their action unconstitutional, invalid, null, and void.
“First and foremost, it must be emphasized unequivocally that no State Working Committee of the Party, including that of Edo State, possesses the authority to discipline any Zonal or National Officer of the Party. This principle is enshrined in Article 59(3) of the Party’s Constitution, which clearly delineates the powers and procedures for disciplining officers at various levels within the Party hierarchy.
“The actions purportedly taken by the Edo State PDP State Working Committee contravene the Party’s Constitution.
“The office of the Legal Adviser South South Zone, therefore, categorically condemns the unconstitutional actions of some members of the Edo State PDP Working Committee.
“Let it be clear that any further attempt to undermine the constitution will be met with the full force of legal recourse available to uphold the integrity and unity of the People’s Democratic Party.
“It is incumbent upon all members of the Party to uphold the values of justice, fairness, and due process that form the foundation of our democratic institution. The South South Zone reaffirms its commitment to protecting the rights of all members and ensuring that Party officials always act in accordance with the Party’s constitution.
“I urge all levels of Party leadership in Edo State to demonstrate commitment to upholding our Constitution and fostering unity and cohesion among members.
“Lastly, I call upon all members of the People’s Democratic Party, especially those entrusted with leadership positions, to exhibit utmost respect for the Party’s Constitution and refrain from actions that undermine its authority and credibility. Together, we must strive to uphold the highest standards of integrity and fairness in our internal processes and decision-making.”
