Politics
PDP Defends Convention Legitimacy, Cites Constitutional Powers to Discipline Wike, Others
By Our Political Reporter
Amid heated political debates and a flurry of online arguments, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has moved to clarify what it describes as “deliberate misinformation” surrounding its recent National Convention and the disciplinary actions taken against some of its prominent members.
Party loyalists and officials have cited specific sections of the PDP Constitution and the Electoral Act to counter claims that the convention was illegal or that the suspension and expulsion of certain members — including a former minister from Rivers State — were unconstitutional.
PDP Constitution Places Supreme Authority on the National Convention
According to the PDP Constitution (2017 as amended), the National Convention remains the party’s highest decision-making body. The clarification references Article 33(1), which states that “the National Convention shall be the supreme authority of the Party.”
Further, Article 31(2)(e) empowers the party to “formulate and implement policies on the organisation, finance, administration and activities of the Party,” while Article 12.87 gives party organs the authority to handle internal matters without outside interference.
The takeaway, according to party insiders: once the National Convention takes a decision, no lower organ or external force can override it.
INEC Presence Not Mandatory — Electoral Act Explains Why
Public arguments have also focused on whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) monitored the convention. Critics claimed that the absence of INEC delegitimized the gathering.
But Section 82 of the Electoral Act 2022 tells a different story.
The law requires political parties to give 21 days’ notice before holding any convention, congress, or meeting. But INEC attendance is optional — not compulsory. The provision uses the word “may,” giving INEC the choice to attend, not the obligation.
This legal interpretation was further strengthened by a Federal High Court judgment concerning the Labour Party’s 2024 National Convention, which was not monitored by INEC but was still upheld as valid by the court once due notification was proven.
According to party officials, the PDP fulfilled the statutory notice requirement, making the convention legally compliant irrespective of INEC’s physical presence.
Convention Has Full Power to Discipline Any Member
The party also addressed concerns surrounding the suspension or expulsion of certain high-profile members accused of anti-party activities.
The constitution gives the National Convention sweeping powers under Article 59(1)–(4) to discipline, suspend, or expel any member — regardless of status — who violates party rules or acts in a manner deemed injurious to the PDP.
Insiders emphasized that the Convention’s decisions on such matters are final within the party hierarchy.
“We Acted Within the Law” — PDP Supporters Fire Back
Supporters say the opposition is attempting to “weaponize misinformation,” insisting that the party acted strictly within its legal and constitutional boundaries.
One party stalwart, Osoniyii from Ibadan North, whose post has now gone viral, remarked that critics are only helping the party gain more publicity, while “we continue to give them free civic education.”
Political Temperature Rises Ahead of Elections
The developments come at a time when political tensions are already high, with major parties recalibrating ahead of upcoming national and state-level contests. Analysts believe the PDP’s firm stance signals a new drive to enforce discipline and reclaim organizational cohesion.
While reactions remain mixed, the party’s clarifications have triggered fresh conversations on internal democracy, party discipline, and the legal framework guiding political parties in Nigeria.
One thing is certain: the PDP is making it clear that it intends to wield its constitutional powers decisively — and critics will have to read the fine print.
By Our Political Reporter
Prominent political and community leaders from Gombe State were among dignitaries who attended the wedding ceremony of Maryam Muhammad Gidado and her husband, Yakubu Muhammad, held in Abuja.
Those present at the event included former Governor of Gombe State and Senator representing Gombe Central, Senator Danjuma Goje; the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya; Senator Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali; and Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh, alongside other well-wishers.
The bride, Maryam, is the daughter of Alhaji Muhammad Gidado Babawo, the Danrimin Dukku, a respected community leader in Gombe State.
The solemnisation of the marriage took place at the National JIBWIS Mosque in Utako, Abuja, where family members, friends, and associates gathered to witness the union and offer prayers for the couple.
Clerics at the ceremony prayed for peace, love, and prosperity in the new home, asking Allah to bless the marriage with harmony and righteous offspring.
The event also provided an opportunity for social interaction among political stakeholders and community leaders, reflecting the strong bonds within the Gombe community both at home and in the diaspora.
The gathering concluded with goodwill messages and prayers wishing the couple a peaceful married life and abundant blessings.
By Our Political Reporter
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has renewed his membership in the All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirming his commitment to the ruling party amid ongoing nationwide registration activities.
Pantami completed the membership renewal in his ward in Gombe metropolis, describing the move as part of his responsibility to support party growth and grassroots political participation.
The exercise underscored his continued influence within the APC structure, where he is widely regarded as a key figure both in Gombe State and at the national level. Party officials present noted that the renewal demonstrates dedication to strengthening party unity and institutional stability.
Following the registration, the former minister visited the APC State Secretariat and the party office in Gombe Local Government Area. The visit drew a large crowd of supporters who gathered to welcome him and express solidarity.
Speaking during the engagement, Pantami called on members to remain committed to the ideals of the party and actively participate in its programmes. He emphasized the importance of collective effort in building a stronger political platform capable of delivering development and good governance.
In a significant show of support, Pantami announced a donation exceeding ₦45 million to facilitate the ongoing membership registration exercise across the state. The contribution, according to party stakeholders, will enhance mobilization and administrative logistics.
In their remarks, party members commended the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of loyalty and leadership. The APC Chairman in Gombe State, Mr. Nitte K. Amangal, praised Pantami’s dedication, stating that the party takes pride in having committed members who contribute to its progress and stability.
The membership renewal campaign forms part of APC’s broader efforts to consolidate its grassroots base ahead of future political activities nationwide.
By Our Political Reporter
ADC Makes Strategic Move in Gombe as Retired AIG Ubandoman Dumps APC, Pledges to Strengthen Opposition
The Gombe State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified its political drive with a high-level visit to retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Zubairu Mu’azu Ubandoman Gombe, who has officially defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the ADC.
The ADC leadership paid the visit to Ubandoman Gombe at his residence in Gombe, where discussions centred on strategies and a clear roadmap for strengthening the party and ensuring its success at all levels ahead of future political engagements.
Those who accompanied the delegation include Isma’il Muhammad, Director of Planning; Dahiru Ma’aji; Dr. Habeen Muhammad, State Publicity Secretary; Malam Danladi Ya’u, State Secretary; Auwal Abba Barde, State Chairman of ADC; Alhaji Sunusi Abdullahi Ataka; Malam Abbakar, Chairman of ADC Gombe Local Government Area; Malam Habu Ubaida, ADC member; Adamu Jarmai, Assistant Treasurer, Gombe South, among other party stakeholders.
Speaking during the visit, AIG (rtd) Zubairu Mu’azu Ubandoman Gombe expressed his readiness to work closely with the ADC leadership to reposition the party and provide a credible alternative for the people of Gombe State and Nigeria at large. He noted that unity, discipline, and people-oriented leadership remain key to rescuing the country from its current challenges.
Welcoming him into the party, the ADC State Chairman, Alhaji Auwal Abba Barde, alongside the State Secretary, Malam Danladi Ya’u, described the ADC as a party open to all Nigerians who are genuinely committed to good governance, accountability, and development.
They emphasized that the ADC is determined to “rescue Nigeria and Gombe State” from poor leadership and misgovernance, adding that the entry of Ubandoman Gombe into the party is a major boost to its growing strength in the state.
Many party members and supporters who witnessed the visit warmly welcomed the retired police chief, noting his vast experience in security and governance. Ubandoman Gombe is a former Security Adviser to Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, before parting ways with the APC.
Political observers see his defection as a significant development that could reshape the political landscape of Gombe State, especially as opposition parties intensify efforts to challenge the ruling APC ahead of upcoming elections.
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