PDP ward congresses in Rivers are invalid, illegal — G60 Reps leader
…As PDP NWC sacks Rivers exco
By Barth Ndubuwah, Port-Harcourt
Leader of G-60 Opposition Lawmakers Denounces Alleged Ward Congresses in Rivers State
Hon. Ikeagwuonu Michael Ugochinyere, the leader of the Group of 60 (G-60) opposition lawmakers in the Federal House of Representatives, has declared the purported ward congresses conducted last Saturday in Rivers State as null and void. He emphasised that the exercise was conducted in defiance of a court injunction that prohibited such actions.
Chairing the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Hon. Ugochinyere voiced his stance during a media interaction in Port Harcourt. He expressed his view on the political situation in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Rivers State, condemning what he described as a “kindred meeting” disguised as ward congresses.
“There is nothing substantial about the so-called ward congresses in Rivers State. They were conducted against a valid court order that halted the process. What occurred on Saturday was akin to a family gathering, not a legitimate political exercise,” stated Hon. Ugochinyere.
Addressing recent developments involving former local government chairmen seeking to reclaim their offices, Hon. Ugochinyere dismissed their efforts as futile and against constitutional provisions.
“These individuals are clinging to false hopes perpetuated by misleading figures in Abuja. The Constitution clearly defines tenure limits, and once expired, there is no legal basis to extend it,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Hon. Ugochinyere urged the people of Rivers State to focus on the upcoming local government elections and disregard distractions.
“The forthcoming elections are crucial for our democracy. We must ensure a smooth electoral process where people can freely choose their representatives,” he emphasised.
In response to internal party matters, Hon. Ugochinyere criticised the actions of the interim leadership of the PDP in Rivers State, which proceeded with congresses despite the court injunction. He noted that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP had dissolved this interim leadership for disregarding legal directives.
The G-60 leader affirmed his commitment to upholding democratic principles and protecting the interests of Rivers State residents amidst ongoing political challenges.
