On Saturday, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, led and participated in the controversial Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) state congress at the party’s secretariat along Port Harcourt-Aba Expressway, Port Harcourt.
The congress took place under tight security, despite conflicting court orders regarding the PDP congresses in Rivers State, which had led to confusion and contention over the proceedings.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Professor Mrs. Ngozi Odu, members of the State Executive Council, the 23 Caretaker Committee Chairmen, and their supporters chose to boycott the event.
Read Also: ‘I Will Put Fire In Your States’ – Wike Sends Warning To Governors Over Control Of Rivers PDP Structure
Wike received a warm welcome from the crowd of PDP delegates who were present at the congress venue.
Before casting his ballot, he thanked the delegates, who were dressed in various attires, for their peaceful demeanor and encouraged them to remain united and work together.
In July, Justice Charles Wali had issued an injunction prohibiting the PDP, its National Chairman Iliya Damagum, and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, or their agents, from holding any congresses in Rivers State until the court reviewed the ongoing suit.
This suit was filed by PDP members from each of the 23 Local Government Areas.
Read Also: Moment Tinubu Arrived In China For State Visit (VIDEOS)
Prior to Justice Wali’s order, Justice Sobere Biambo had issued a similar injunction in a suit filed by David Omereji and ten others, halting the PDP’s congress activities.
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja subsequently countered the first order, allowing the party to proceed with its congresses. Justice Peter Lifu ruled against the DSS, the police, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other agencies from interfering with or disrupting the congresses.
As of the latest update, the Martin Amaewhule-led 27 members of the State Assembly, loyal to Wike, were already seated and accredited at the congress venue.
The status of these lawmakers was a subject of litigation due to their defection from PDP to APC last year.
The congress program had a slot indicating the anticipated arrival of Governor Fubara.
At the time of reporting, Wike was in the process of casting his ballot, followed by other delegates.
