The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally accepted the ruling of the Rivers State High Court, which nullified its Ward, Local Government, and State Congresses held on July 27, August 10, and August 31, 2024. The party has also recognized the faction led by Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor, aligned with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as the legitimate leadership of the party in Rivers State.
In a statement released on Thursday, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba confirmed the decision of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to uphold the court ruling. He described the verdict as a demonstration of the party’s commitment to internal democracy and transparency.
“The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) acknowledges receipt, has considered, and hereby accepts the judgment of the Rivers State High Court, which nullified the Ward, Local Government, and State Congresses of our Party in Rivers State conducted on July 27, August 10, and August 31, 2024,” Ologunagba stated.
Court Ruling Ends Leadership Dispute
The leadership tussle in Rivers PDP had pitted Governor Siminalayi Fubara against his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The dispute centered on control of the party’s structure in the state, with both factions holding competing congresses last year.
The conflict escalated when Fubara’s allies withdrew from the congresses, citing a court injunction. On January 13, 2025, the Rivers State High Court, presided over by Justice Stephen Jumbo, issued an interlocutory injunction disbanding the executives loyal to Wike, led by State Chairman Aaron Chukwuemeka. Justice Jumbo’s ruling instead recognized the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led faction as the rightful leadership of the party.
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PDP NWC Endorses Ewor Leadership
Following the court’s decision, the PDP NWC formally endorsed the Ewor-led faction to steer the affairs of the party in Rivers State. Ologunagba reiterated that the party would adhere to the provisions of its constitution, as amended in 2017.
“Consequently, in line with the judgment of the Court delivered on Monday, January 13, 2025, the NWC affirms the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led Rivers State Executive to henceforth pilot the affairs of the PDP Rivers State Chapter in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017),” Ologunagba announced.
The NWC commended the court’s decision for upholding the principles of due process and rule of law within the party.
“The NWC commends the decision of the court, which reaffirms the PDP’s position as a bastion of transparency, internal democracy, and strict adherence to the rule of law in the conduct of congresses and other activities,” the statement read.
Call for Unity and Cooperation
Ologunagba called on all PDP members in Rivers State to support the Ewor-led leadership, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration.
“We call on all leaders, stakeholders, members, and supporters of our party in Rivers State to work with the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led executive to ensure the unity, stability, and growth of the PDP in the state,” he said.
He also urged the newly recognized leadership to focus on uniting the party and enhancing its chances in future elections.