Suspended PDP Vice Chairman Accused of Using Police to Silence, Intimidate Party Leaders in His Ward

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing internal turmoil as suspended National Vice Chairman for the South East, Chief Ali Odefa, stands accused of orchestrating the arrest and detention of several party chieftains in Ebonyi State. The allegations arise following Odefa’s suspension by the party’s executive members in Ogudu Okwor Ward, Oshiri, due to purported anti-party activities.

According to reports, Odefa dismissed the suspension as “null and void,” referring to the ward executives as “faceless people.” In a move many perceive as retaliatory, he petitioned the police, leading to the arrest of key party leaders, who were subsequently charged with serious offenses including cultism, forgery, and impersonation.

Herbert Ovuta, the Acting Chairman of the PDP in Ogudu Okwor Ward, issued a statement alleging that Odefa led a group of armed individuals in unmarked uniforms who forcibly abducted several party members on the night of September 7, 2024. These abductions reportedly occurred at the homes of key party officials, including Obinna Chukwu, the Acting Youth Leader, and Njoku Nwagu, the Ward Secretary.

The statement detailed how the victims were later found at the SWAT detention facility in Abakaliki, exhibiting signs of physical abuse. They were quickly arraigned in court on charges linked to criminal activities, which party officials claim are fabricated and politically motivated.

Ovuta further claimed that Odefa has a close relationship with certain officers within the Ebonyi State Police Command, particularly CSP B.G. Emenike, whom he allegedly relies on to suppress dissent within the party.

“This unlawful action of Mr. Ali Odefa, in collusion with the police, is part of his longstanding oppressive behavior that led to his suspension,” the statement asserted. It called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate potential police misconduct and bias against PDP members in the state.

The statement also highlighted that Odefa’s suspension is currently the subject of a legal challenge pending in the Federal High Court, Abakaliki, underscoring the growing divide within the PDP in Ebonyi State.

In conclusion, Ovuta urged Odefa to respect the ongoing legal processes regarding his suspension instead of resorting to violence and intimidation.