JUST IN: PDP NWC Dismisses Claims of Ugochinyere’s Expulsion

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared the purported expulsion of Hon. Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu by the Umuopia/Umukegwu Ward Chapter in Imo State as null, void, and without effect.

In a press statement issued on December 7, 2024, the NWC emphasized that the expulsion violates the provisions of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), specifically Sections 57 (7) and 59 (3), which outline the disciplinary processes within the party.

According to Section 57 (7) of the Constitution, no Executive Committee at any level, except the National Executive Committee (NEC), has the authority to address disciplinary matters involving National Executive Committee members, Deputy Governors, or members of the National Assembly. Similarly, Section 59 (3) reinforces that only the NEC has the jurisdiction to discipline members of the National Assembly, among others.

The NWC clarified that ward, local government, or state chapters lack the power to suspend, expel, or discipline a member of the National Assembly without first consulting the National Working Committee, as stipulated by the party’s constitution.

The NWC reiterated that the PDP operates as an organized political entity governed by strict adherence to its Constitution and Rules. It warned against attempts by individuals or groups to violate these provisions.

Hon. Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu, a member of the House of Representatives, remains a bona fide member of the PDP, retaining all rights, privileges, and obligations. The NWC urged party leaders, stakeholders, and members in Imo State and across the nation to disregard the purported expulsion and continue their collective efforts to strengthen the party.

The statement, signed by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, called for unity among party members in Imo State, stressing the importance of collaboration for the party’s success and the benefit of the people.