By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Saturday, at its National Convention holding in Ibadan, Oyo State, announced the suspension of some of its chieftains believed to be working against its progress.
The party voted to expel prominent figures including former Rivers State governor and Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike; former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose; and the party’s factional National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, among others.
In all, the party officially expelled 11 members.
Reacting, Wike said those who expelled him are intoxicated.
The national convention, holding at Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba Stadium, Mokola, Ibadan, witnessed leaders and delegates of the party from across the country.
Elder statesman and former military governor, Chief Bode George, moved the motion for the expulsion of the listed members, citing what he described as anti party activities inconsistent with the party’s collective interest. A chairman of the party from Bauchi State seconded the motion.
Party leaders said the decision marked a new phase in the PDP’s effort to rebuild ahead of future national contests.
Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Muhammed, put forward the vote for adoption of the expulsion of the listed persons and it was unanimously accepted after which Wike and others were pronounced officially expelled from the party.
As of the time of writing this report, activities to elect principals of the party were ongoing at the Ibadan venue.
Wike, who spoke through his media aide, Lere Olayinka, said: “They went to Ibadan to start dirty December in November
“When people decide to start their own dirty December in November, one can’t but ignore whatever comes out of their mouths.
“They gathered in Ibadan to do social party, enjoyed themselves and got intoxicated, they are free to say anything.”
