The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the suspension of its National Vice Chairman (South-East), Chief Ali Odefa, amid escalating internal conflicts within the party. The suspension was declared by the ward executive committee of Oguduokwor Ward in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State during a press conference held in Abuja.
Herbert Onyedikachi, the Acting Chairman of the PDP in Oguduokwor Ward, cited alleged anti-party activities and other offences as the reasons for Odefa’s suspension. Onyedikachi emphasized that the decision was made in accordance with Section 57 (3) of the PDP Constitution, which grants the ward executive committee the authority to suspend members for actions detrimental to the party’s interests.
“The suspension of Chief Ali Odefa is a necessary step to uphold the values and principles of our party. His actions have been deemed harmful to the unity and integrity of the PDP,” Onyedikachi stated.
The PDP national working committee is expected to review the suspension and take further action as necessary. This development adds to the ongoing crisis within the PDP, which has been marked by internal disputes and defections to rival parties.
Chief Ali Odefa has dismissed the suspension as baseless, describing it as a “cowardly act” by individuals seeking attention. He questioned the legitimacy of the announcement, asserting that those behind it are not recognized by the party in Ebonyi State.
The PDP leadership is urged to address these internal conflicts promptly to restore unity and focus on the party’s objectives ahead of the upcoming elections.