Ondo PDP Defies National Leadership, Appoints Acting Chairman Amidst Controversy

In a bold move disregarding the directives of the National Working Committee (NWC), the Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed Tola Alabere as the acting State Chairman, replacing Fatai Adams, who was suspended earlier for alleged anti-party activities.

The decision, ratified by the State Executive Council during a Thursday meeting, highlights the internal rift within the party. Mr. Alabere, the former Vice Chairman, now assumes the role of acting State Chairman.

The suspension of Mr. Adams by the state working committee, comprising nine out of twelve members, sparked controversy. Despite being urged to face a disciplinary committee for further investigations, the National Secretariat overruled the state’s decision, labeling the suspension as “illegal” and not in line with the party’s constitution.

Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary, declared the suspension null and void, emphasizing that due process had not been followed. According to Ologunagba, the state working committee lacked the authority to suspend a state chairman without proper recourse to the NWC, as mandated by the party’s constitution.

In response, Kennedy Peretei, the spokesperson for the Ondo State PDP, rejected the national intervention, asserting that the party, at all levels, has the authority to discipline its members. Peretei emphasized that the appointment of Mr. Alabere adhered to due process and aligns with the party’s constitution.

Meanwhile, Mr. Adams maintains his position, insisting that he remains the Chairman of the party despite the decision of the council members. The unfolding events underscore the internal challenges faced by the Ondo State PDP, raising questions about the party’s unity and adherence to internal procedures.