National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Debo Ologunagba, has defended the party’s preparations for its national convention, saying the process has followed the constitution and guidelines of the PDP despite protests from Nyesom Wike and his supporters.
Speaking on an interview with ARISE NEWS on Wednesday, Ologunagba stressed that the PDP has followed due process in organising its convention. “We’re guided by our rules, and we’re guided by law. More importantly, we’re guided by the guidelines of the party,” he said.
He explained that the party’s organs had already made their decisions: “The NEC, in its wisdom, on the 101st meeting, set up the zoning committee and the National Convention Organising Committee. And the zoning committee went to work and they came out with a recommendation, which was presented at the 102nd NEC meeting.”
On claims that the process excluded stakeholders, Ologunagba stated, Everybody has a right to have the notice to that meeting, including those who claim to be NEC. They were invited, they were doing it, and it was published in about four national newspapers.”
He rejected suggestions that Wike’s demands could derail the convention. “So, if you come late in the day and talk about people being disenfranchised, that would not be correct. Again, that would be completely untrue. I don’t like to use the word lies, or dancing to the gallery.”
Addressing allegations that the PDP ignored court orders, Ologunagba stated, “There is no court order, not one that I am not aware of.”
He cited the case of Ebonyi State, “At the 596th meeting, congresses were conducted there. The NWC consistent to receive reports on the electoral ballot. We considered it, we approved it, we communicated it to INEC. It was signed by the chairman, Umar Damagun, and the national secretary. So at what point did they say that is not okay?”
On Anambra State, he insisted, “Not one single case is pending in respect of that congress. In fact, it’s on record as one of the best in that state in terms of congresses.”
Ologunagba stressed that the party was united and ready, “This party is big, it’s organic, the members are ready, the leaders are working together, the NWC, the governance forum, and all the states are working together towards the convention.
“Now the convention has been set up by the chairman. It will start soon. Figuratively, the train has arrived in Abuja and we’re doing well going ahead with that convention.”
Erizia Rubyjeana
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