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Tag: PDP

  • PDP asks court to sack 4 Osun lawmakers over defection

    PDP asks court to sack 4 Osun lawmakers over defection

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to order the removal of four lawmakers representing Osun State at the National Assembly (NASS) for defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The PDP made the application in a four separate suits dated Aug. 20 and filed by its counsel, Rapheal Oyewole.

    NAN reports that the lawmakers include two senators and two members of the House of Representatives.

    They are Sen. Francis Fadahunsi representing Osun East Senatorial District; Sen. Olubiyi Oluwole Fadeyi for Osun Central Senatorial District; Rep Omirin Olusanya who represents Atakumosa East/West and Ilesa East/West Federal Constituency, and Rep Taofeek Ajilesoro representing Ife Central/East/North and South Federal Constituency.

    The plaintiff had, in the originating summons marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1725/2025, FHC/ABJ/CS/1728/2025, FHC/ABJ/CS/1727/2025 and FHC/ABJ/CS/1726/2025, sued Fadahunsi, Fadeyi, Olusanya and Ajilesoro respectively, as 1st defendant in each of the case.

    While the President of the Senate is sued as 2nd defendant in the suit against the senators, the Speaker is named as 2nd defendant in the matter against the two House members.

    However, the National Assembly, Clerk of NASS and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are listed as 3rd to 5th defendants in the suits respectively.

    The party, which sought six questions for determination, asked if whether by virtue of Section 68(1)(g) of the Constitution 1999 (as amended), a senator or House member such as the lawmakers are not liable to forfeit their legislative seat after resigning the membership of the plaintiff political party on whose platform they were elected, before the end of the term for which they were elected, devoid of any division, merger and/or faction in the plaintiff political party.

    The PDP, therefore, prayed the court to declare that the continued occupation of the legislative seats by the four lawmakers after defecting from the party on whose platform they were elected, without satisfying the express provision under Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, constitutes a breach of the constitution and renders their seats vacant by operation of law.

    It also prayed the court to make an order of mandamus compelling the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, to, forthwith, declare their seats vacant accordingly.

    The PDP urged the court to direct Akpabio, Abbas and INEC to discharge their constitutional duties as provided by the law by declaring the seats vacant and initiating processes for the conduct of bye-elections into the vacant seats in the senatorial districts and constituencies.

    The party sought an order directing the Clerk of the National Assembly (NASS) to withdraw all entitlements and stop payments of salaries, allowances, including benefits to Fadahunsi, Fadeyi, Olusanya and Ajilesoro.

    It equally sought an order directing the embattled lawmakers to refund all salaries, emoluments, benefits and allowances received from the date of their resignation from PDP to the date of judgment, having unlawfully retained a legislative seat in violation of Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution.

    The PDP said the court decision would be in strict compliance with Section 68(1)(g) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Meanwhile, the suits are yet to be assigned to a judge.

    It would be recalled that the Osun State PDP chapter had, recently, dragged Rep Oluwole Oke, the lawmaker representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of the state, before Justice Emeka Nwite over his defection to APC.

    The state’s party had continued to activate the provisions of the constitution as contained in Section 68(1)(g) which borders on defection of legislators during the term for which they were elected.

  • National convention: PDP will demonstrate capacity in handling challenges – Ologunagba

    National convention: PDP will demonstrate capacity in handling challenges – Ologunagba

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it will make a strong statement with its forthcoming elective national convention, that the party has capacity to organise itself in the face of challenges.

    The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba stated  this on Tuesday in Abuja during a news conference on the update on the party’s forthcoming elective national convention.

    NAN reports that the event is scheduled for Nov. 15  and Nov. 16 in Ibadan.

    He said that one the things the party did was to ensure that every state organ and stakeholders were carried along in the selection of the committees, adding that the party would soon publish the lists of the sub-committees.

    Ologunagba said that the party was excited on the level of preparations so far by various committees and stakeholders, noting that several committees were already working for the success of the convention.

    “To show the inclusiveness of our party, every state chapter contributed to populating those sub-committees.

    “Every organ of the party, the Board of Trustees (BOT), the Governor’s Forum, the state chapters and all other relevant bodies and stakeholders are all accommodated.

    “This is because we’re determined to make a very strong statement about the capacity of this party to organise itself, to bring itself back when there are challenges that we have done.

    “To ensure that every organ, every party member have a sense of belonging, because we’re truly people’s democratic party,” he said.

    Ologunagba said that the feedback from the field had shown that the party was ready for Ibadan.

    “We’re very ready. We are coasting on. We’re determined because this would show the capacity of PDP to stand up, to defend democracy, to do the right thing,” he said.

    Responding to a question on the speculation that there was possibility of having parallel convention, Ologunagba said that the party was not aware.

    He said that the party had process and constitution guiding it’s actions, adding that “interestingly, the process has started, we have been in sync with our regulator, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),has been attending all the meetings.

    “They have witnesses to all the things we’re doing. That might be a media hype, people testing the waters. In-fact it does not exist.

    “The local organising committee is working hard. The venue committee, they’re working already ahead of time. Even before the inauguration of those sub-committees, they’re already working. And we’re methodical in the things we do,” he said.

    On the performance of the party in the Saturday by-elections, Ologunagba said Nigerians would not allowed what happened during the election to repeat itself in 2027 general elections.

    He alleged that the by-elections were marred by violence, intimidations, attacks and arrest of opposition members including PDP elected members in different states where the elections took place.

    “I have a bad news for APC. What happened in those by-election, that they call election, will not happen in 2007.

    “Why? The reason is that Nigerian people are wiser,” he said

    He said that Nigerians would vote based on the prevailing challenges facing them and the country.

  • SAD! Pioneer Edo PDP chairman, Aguele is dead

    SAD! Pioneer Edo PDP chairman, Aguele is dead

    The pioneer chairman of Edo Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Solomon Aguele is dead.

    This was revealed in a statement signed by Edo PDP Caretaker Committee Chairman Dr Tony Aziegbemi.

    Read statement below:

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Edo State Chapter, with deep sorrow, announces the passing of our pioneer State Chairman, Chief Solomon Aguele, who served the party with distinction and dedication from 1999 to 2007.

    Chief Aguele was a committed leader whose steadfastness, wisdom, and devotion to democratic ideals laid the strong foundation upon which our party continues to stand today. His leadership during the formative years of our great party in Edo State was pivotal to the growth and successes recorded.

    We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, political associates, and all who mourn his departure. Chief Aguele will be remembered for his humility, loyalty, and enduring contributions to the PDP and to the development of Edo State.

    May his soul rest in perfect peace.

    Signed

    Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, Chairman,
    PDP Edo State Caretaker Committee

  • PDP, APC trade blame over Zamfara by-election

    PDP, APC trade blame over Zamfara by-election

    The Zamfara chapters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) are trading accusations over alleged irregularities in the Kaura Namoda South by-election.

    The PDP State Chairman, Dr Jamilu Magayaki, told journalists he was satisfied with voter turnout and the orderly conduct of the electorate during the exercise.

    He alleged that the peaceful process was disrupted by APC officials, who, in collaboration with some security operatives, interfered with the election monitoring.

    According to him, what transpired in Sakajiki and Kyambarawa was not an election, as PDP officials and members were chased away from many polling units.

    He further claimed that security personnel openly aided APC officials in manipulating the process, leaving PDP supporters disenfranchised in several polling areas.

    Magayaki commended the orderly turnout of voters in spite of intimidation by security operatives at polling centres across the constituency.

    He urged voters in the affected five polling units in Sakajiki and Kyambarawa to remain resolute and participate massively in the forthcoming rerun election.

    Similarly, APC Publicity Secretary, Alh. Yusuf Idris, in a statement in Gusau, accused the PDP of deploying thugs and Community Protection Guards to destabilise the poll.

    Idris commended the resilience of voters who defied challenges and participated in the State Assembly by-election in spite of hostile conditions.

    He alleged that the government in power deployed unlawful machinery to intimidate and harass voters, but stressed that the people remained determined and focused.

    Idris claimed that manipulation agents were working hard to overturn the inconclusive results but expressed confidence that INEC would resist being dragged into electoral malpractice.

    He urged APC members, supporters, and the public to stay calm while awaiting INEC’s decision on the matter.

    The APC leadership, he added, would strongly resist any attempt to alter the people’s mandate in Kaura Namoda South.

  • How APC defeated PDP, ADC to sweep Edo by-elections

    How APC defeated PDP, ADC to sweep Edo by-elections

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday declared Dr Joseph Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the Edo Central Senatorial by-election conducted on August 16.

    INEC Returning Officers, Prof. Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, announced the results at the official collation Centre in Ubiaja, Esan South-East Local Government of Edo State.

    Ikpea secured a total of 105,129 votes to defeat the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Joe Okojie, who polled 15,146 votes.

    Addressing the media shortly after being declared the winner, the Senator-elect, Ikpea thanked God for his victory and the people of Edo Central, who made his victory a reality.

    Ikpea expressed heartfelt appreciation to the electorate for their overwhelming support, noting that their votes were not just for him, but an expression of trust in Governor Monday Okpebholo and the APC’s developmental agenda for Edo.

    He described Okpebholo as a visionary leader, whose unwavering commitment to grassroots governance and party unity contributed significantly to the electoral success.

    Ikpea also lauded the APC leadership and the by-election campaign council for their coordination, discipline, and tireless efforts.

    The senator-elect promised to prioritise legislation and interventions in infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and strengthening traditional institutions in the district.

    Omosede Igbinedion wins Ovia federal constituency by-election in Edo

    Similarly, INEC declared Barrister Omosede Igbinedion the winner of the Ovia Federal Constituency by-election held on Saturday in Edo.

    The election took place across two local governments of Ovia South-West and Ovia North-East , both forming the Ovia Federal Constituency in Edo.

    Announcing the results early Sunday morning at Iguobazuwa, the returning officer, Clement Ighodaro, declared Igbinedion, the winner with a total of 77,053 votes.

    Her closest rival from the PDP polled 3,838 votes, while the ADC candidate came third with a total of 925 votes.

    In her victory speech, Barrister Igbinedion thanked her supporters and pledged to deliver impactful and effective representation at the National Assembly.

    Igbinedion was first elected into the House of Representatives in 2015 and would now return to represent Ovia Federal Constituency for the second time.

  • IPOB reacts as Canadian court labels APC, PDP ‘terrorist groups’

    IPOB reacts as Canadian court labels APC, PDP ‘terrorist groups’

    The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has welcomed hailed the alleged ruling by a Canadian court, which it claims designates Nigeria’s two major political parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as terrorist organizations.

    The spokesperson, IPOB, Emma Powerful in a press statement issued on August 16, 2025 said the reported decision validates its long-standing position on Nigeria’s political and security challenges.

    “This is a defining moment. The global community is beginning to see the truth about the political structures that have subjected our people to decades of repression and human rights violations,” the statement read.

    Powerful also recounted the Nigerian civil war of 1967–1970, insisting that the historical injustices of that period continue to fuel its call for self-determination. The group maintained that its mission remains “non-violent” and rooted in the pursuit of a peaceful separation through legal means.

    The group criticized past efforts by the Nigerian government to ban it, stating that these actions were politically motivated. They called on the international community to pay more attention to the rights of indigenous communities seeking self-rule.

    As of the latest update, Canadian judicial authorities have not confirmed the alleged ruling. Additionally, neither the Nigerian government nor the APC (All Progressives Congress) and PDP (People’s Democratic Party) have issued official statements in response to IPOB’s claims.

  • By-elections: PDP’s candidate defeats APC opponent with 10,092-vote margin

    By-elections: PDP’s candidate defeats APC opponent with 10,092-vote margin

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, popularly known as Don, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), winner of the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election.

    The Returning Officer, Professor Abiodun Oluwadare of the University of Ibadan, announced the result on Saturday at the Collation Centre, Ikolaba High School, Ibadan.

    According to INEC, Oyekunle secured 18,404 votes to defeat his closest rival, Hon. Adewale Olatunji (Murphy) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 8,312 votes.

    With the victory, Oyekunle will replace the late Hon. Musiliu Olaide Akinremi (Jagaban), whose death created the vacancy.

    The win is a major milestone for the PDP, which reclaimed the Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat for the first time since 2011.

    Supporters of the party flooded the streets in jubilation after the announcement, describing the outcome as a “coast-to-coast victory” that reaffirmed the PDP’s popularity in Oyo State.

  • PDP wins Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election

    PDP wins Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election

    Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Fola Oyekunle has won the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election.

    The Returning Officer for the election, Prof. Abiodun Oluwadare declared  the result of the election in the early hours of Sunday in Ibadan.

    Oluwadare said that Oyekunle of PDP  scored a total of 18,404 votes to defeat his closest rival, Adewale Olatunji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 8,312 votes.

    He also said that African Democratic Party (ADC) candidate, Femi Akin-Alamu polled 88 votes while Olabisi Olajumoke of All Progressive Grand Alliance had 40 votes.

    “The candidate of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Hammed Badmus had 18 votes.

    “Oyekunle of PDP having satisfied the requirement of the law is hereby declare the winner of the election,” he said.

    The Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat became vacant following the demise of Rep. Olaide Akinremi of the APC on July 10.

  • By-elections: PDP rejects results in Kano, alleges harassment in Ogun; INEC reacts

    By-elections: PDP rejects results in Kano, alleges harassment in Ogun; INEC reacts

    The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Kano State has rejected the outcome of the Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa state constituencies re-run elections, citing widespread irregularities and violence.

    The party claims the electoral process was marred by thuggery, with political thugs intimidating eligible voters, rendering the exercise ridiculous.

    The Chairman of the party  Alhaji Yusuf Kibiya, who stated  this while addressing newsmen on Saturday in Kano,  described the process as “totally devoid of all democratic processes”.

    He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide a level playing ground for all parties, emphasising that the current state of affairs undermines the integrity of the electoral process.

    Kibiya explained that the entire process was “totally devoid of all democratic processes”. He called on security agencies to protect voters, uphold peaceful assembly, and deter intimidation and violence.

    The chiarman advised the Kano State Government and national leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetorics and actions, and urged them promote transparent and peaceful electoral process.

    He also called on relevant  authorities to  investigate electoral law breaches and sanction offenders accordingly to prevent future misconduct.

    The Nigeria Police on Saturday announced the arrest of 288 suspected thugs during the re-run election for Ghari/Tsanyawa State Constituency and Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency.

    The  Commissioner of Police in Kano, Ibrahim Bakori, disclosed this to newsmen in the Shanono Local Government Area of the state.

    Ogun by-election: PDP candidate alleges harassment by APC

    Meanwhile, Mr Bolarinwa Oluwole, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the  Ogun by-election for Remo Federal Constituency on Saturday, said that thugs, allegedly hired by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) beat and chased voters away at polling units in the constituency.

    He claimed that he was initially chased away by the thugs stationed at his polling unit. The PDP candidate spoke with newsmen shortly after he cast his vote at Polling Unit 009, Ijagba Ward 7, Sagamu, Sagamu Local Government Area of the state.

    He said  the thugs, allegedly hired by the APC, targeted  strongholds of the PDP to cause violence, declaring that there was no by-election in Ogun. He termed the process as electoral fraud and violence perpetuated by the ruling party.

    He flayed the APC for allegedly unleashing political thugs against members of the opposition and causing violence, in order to rig the election.

    “Before I came here, there was no election. They were beating people here that voted for the PDP. APC thugs chased me away, they had to bring me to one corner. It’s a pity to the governor and all his thugs because of a small boy like me, they have been running up and down beating our people.

    “They have really bastardised this exercise. This is not an election. If  INEC does not say the truth, I leave everything in God’s hands,” Oluwole said.

    In a swift response, the  APC candidate, Mrs Adesola Elegbeji, cast her vote at Ibido polling unit, ward 15 Ijagba, Sagamu.

    Speaking after casting her vote, Elegbeji noted that the election was peaceful while also appreciating security agencies, INEC and the voter’s for their roles in the process. She expressed optimism that she would emerge victorious.

    “Am confident , we massively won  this election in 2023 by decisive mandate before our representative was taken away from us, she did a tremendous job.

    “Our campaign message has been continuity . The people of Remo  know that we are the only party that can continue the good works that our former representative did.

    “Am confident that we will win convincingly . Everything is calm, there is no trouble , we are a peaceful community and we intend to maintain that. There has been no incidences of misconduct ,” she said.

    The former member representing the constituency, Adewunmi Onanuga died on Jan. 15,  after a brief illness.

    Alleged electoral malpractices: Security agencies will do the needful – INEC

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ogun has expressed confidence that the security agencies would deal decisively with anyone or group caught involved in vote buying and other electoral malpractices.

    Remo Federal Constituency is among the 16 constituencies where by-elections were held in 12 states in the country.

    The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ogun, Saseyi Feyijimi, made the disclosure on Saturday in Sagamu while reacting to alleged vote buying involving officials of INEC and some political faithful in an interview with newsmen.

    “A viral video being circulated displayed where the officials and the faithful were arrested with huge sums of cash allegedly meant for rigging in the by-elections into the Remo Federal Constituency.”

    She stated that the commission was sure that the security agencies were on top of the matter.

    “INEC is sure that the security agencies will do the needful; as soon as I lay my hands on the official report, I will also inform the National Headquarters,”

    The REC further commended voters at the constituency for coming out early and displayed orderliness.

    She said, “I reiterate my assurance of INEC’s commitment to be impartial and transparent.”

    The by -election into the Remo Federal Constituency is to fill the seat left vacant by the death of Adewunmi Onanuga, former Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, who passed away in Jan. 15 after a brief illness.

  • Former PDP national secretary, Onyeabo dies at 80

    Former PDP national secretary, Onyeabo dies at 80

    A former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretary, Sir Rex Onyeabo has passed on at the age of 80, his family has announced. His son, Dr Obiora Onyeabo, stated this in statement on Thursday in Enugu.

    According to him, the former PDP chieftain passed on peacefully on Aug. 7.

    “With heavy hearts but gratitude to God for a life well spent, the Onyeabo Family of Enugu State announces the passing of our Patriarch and Statesman, Chief (Sir) Rex Chuma Onyeabo (KSM).

    “He is the Eze-Ugo 1 of Abuja Igbo Community, Onwa na-etili Ora 1 of Ugbawka, Ijele 1 na Akaegbe-Ugwu and Ada-Idaha of Efik Kingdom.

    “Chief Rex Onyeabo is a founding member of PDP and served as its National Secretary in 1999 as well as the PDP’s Board of Trustees until death.

    “Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course by the family. Whilst requesting your prayers during this period, kindly direct all inquiries to: Dr Obiora Onyeabo and Mr Arinze Onyeabo on 08023355509 and 0814 415 1675. Or email Onwaliveson2025@gmail.com.”

    Onyeabor is an engineering alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University,  USA and upon returning to Nigeria was committed to public service.

    He served in various capacities both at Federal and State levels including: deputy chairman, governing board, Federal Capital Development Authority and chairman, governing council, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital.

    Others are the chairman, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, chairman,  Nike Lake Resort Hotels Enugu and permanent secretary, Enugu State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport.

    He also served as Local Government Services Commission, and Information and Culture, chairman, Institute of Directors, Abuja.

    Onyeabo ran several successful companies, was a member of the Noble Order of Knights of St. Mulumba and was an active member of the Abuja and Enugu Catholic communities.