Benin City, Nigeria — December 3, 2025
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has refuted reports circulating on social media and some online platforms alleging that the party held a national convention in Ibadan on November 16, 2025, where a new National Chairman purportedly emerged. The party also dismissed claims that expulsion certificates had been issued to several members, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike.
In a statement signed by the Edo State PDP Publicity Secretary, Bob-Manuel Umoru, the chapter described the reports as misleading and without any legal or procedural basis.
No Convention Held, Says Edo PDP
According to Umoru, the PDP has not convened any national convention as required by the party’s 2017 amended constitution. He maintained that no individual can validly claim to have been elected into any national office when no constitutionally recognized convention took place.
He described the alleged Ibadan convention as a “fabrication” that holds no legitimacy within the party’s structures.
Court Orders Still Operational
The statement further revealed that two existing High Court judgments currently govern the party’s leadership status and expressly restrain the conduct of any national convention until certain matters are resolved. Umoru emphasized that these court orders have not been overturned by any higher court.
“Any actions taken in defiance of these orders—including claims of new leadership or handover ceremonies—are null, void, and of no effect,” he said.
Expulsion Certificates Branded ‘A Political Charade’
The Edo PDP criticized the circulated “expulsion certificates,” calling them a mockery of due process and a “childish political drama.” The statement argued that members cannot be expelled from a convention that did not occur, under a leadership not recognized by law, and through a process that violates both court directives and the party constitution.
Call for Legality and Internal Discipline
Umoru stressed that the PDP’s rebuilding efforts must be rooted in respect for the rule of law, adherence to constitutional provisions, and genuine reconciliation. He warned against attempts to hijack the party through what he called “illegitimate power grabs.”
Despite ongoing internal conflicts, he reaffirmed that the PDP remains resilient.
Edo PDP Urges Members to Remain Steadfast
The statement concluded by urging members within Edo State, across Nigeria, and abroad to disregard the circulating reports and maintain their commitment to defending the PDP’s constitution and integrity.
Umoru reiterated:
No national convention has been held.
Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, is not the PDP National Chairman.
The purported expulsions are invalid.
High Court orders remain in effect.
