The Acting Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State has committed to a thorough investigation into allegations of anti-party activities by its members.
The committee announced plans to establish a disciplinary panel soon, emphasising that sanctions, including suspension or expulsion, would be imposed irrespective of an individual’s rank or influence within the party.
The investigation will focus on members’ conduct during the 2023 general elections.
This decision was shared during a press briefing attended by acting executives from both state and local government levels.
Acting State Chairman, Robinson Nname-Ewor, stated, “Under our leadership, we shall begin immediate steps to heal and rebuild our once-great party, which has suffered setbacks, with hope lost across the state, 23 local government areas, and 319 electoral wards. We will restore the PDP Rivers State Chapter to greatness.”
He added, “To achieve this, we will consult critical stakeholders, unite members, and work collaboratively to rebuild hope. A sensitisation tour across the 23 LGAs will be initiated alongside a membership drive to strengthen the party ahead of future elections.
“In the coming days, we shall also establish a disciplinary committee to address instances of anti-party activities, particularly during the 2023 General Elections and beyond, and any other acts that might tarnish the party’s reputation.
“Those found guilty will face appropriate disciplinary measures, including suspension, dismissal, or other sanctions as outlined by the party.”
The Acting Executive also laid out conditions for the continued existence of the PDP in Rivers State.
A key condition is the full reinstatement of the state’s party leadership under Governor Siminalayi Fubara by the PDP’s National Leadership.
Additionally, the Acting Executive, led by Robinson Nname-Ewor, must be recognised as the legitimate leadership following the sacking of the Aaron Chukeuemeka-led executive by a State High Court.
A Rivers State High Court on 13 January 2025, dismissed the Chukwuemeka Aaron-led State Executive Committee, as well as the ward and local government executive committees.
The Congresses that produced Aaron Chukwuemeka reportedly violated a High Court order prohibiting such actions until substantive matters were resolved.
Following this, the original State Executive Committee, whose tenure expired in mid-2024, assumed acting leadership on 15 January 2025.
Acting Chairman Nname Robinson Ewor and Acting Secretary Field Nkor, along with other members, now lead the state executive.
The Acting Executive initially planned to reclaim the PDP State Secretariat on 23 Aba Road on Thursday but has postponed the move.
During a briefing, the Acting Chairman explained, “Security agencies, aware of our plans to reclaim the party secretariat, have advised a suspension to maintain peace. They are currently at the secretariat to prevent any potential unrest.”
“In line with the peaceful stance of our leader, His Excellency Sir Dr Siminalayi Fubara, we have resolved to prioritise peace and postpone the planned takeover of the PDP State Secretariat.”
He urged supporters and party members to remain calm while steps are taken to assume control of the secretariat.
