Opposition lawmakers accuse PDP leaders of plot against Fubara

In a heated press conference, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) accused PDP acting National Chairman Umar Iliya Damagum and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu of plotting to sabotage Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s government in Rivers State.

The lawmakers claim that Damagum and Anyanwu are working behind the scenes to derail an ongoing legal battle against defected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

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Speaking on behalf of the opposition coalition, House of Representatives member Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere detailed what he described as a “calculated betrayal” by Damagum and Anyanwu. He alleged that the two PDP leaders are actively undermining the party’s efforts to block APC defectors from legally challenging the PDP-led government in Rivers State. This alleged collusion, Ugochinyere warned, could pave the way for pro-Wike APC lawmakers to stage a comeback and attempt to remove Governor Fubara from office.

Ugochinyere expressed concern that the legal battle, marked PHC/2177/CS/2024, centres on the defection of 27 PDP lawmakers to the APC in December 2023. He noted that the Rivers State High Court had previously issued a restraining order against the defected lawmakers, but former Governor Nyesom Wike allegedly retained legal representation to appeal the order without party approval. This move was opposed by the PDP’s National Legal Adviser, Mr Ajibade, SAN, who attempted to withdraw the appeal.

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The lawmakers accuse Damagum and Anyanwu of undermining the PDP’s internal unity and aiding the APC’s political ambitions. They allege that the duo has interfered in other legal matters across Abuja and Port Harcourt, all aimed at weakening the PDP in key regions.

Ugochinyere warned of serious consequences if these actions are not stopped, including the erosion of internal democracy, party fragmentation, and loss of public trust. He called for immediate action to reaffirm the authority of the National Legal Adviser, legally restrain the National Chairman and Secretary from further interference, and convene a disciplinary committee to investigate their actions.

“The PDP must stand united in the face of this betrayal,” Ugochinyere said. “We call on all party members and well-meaning Nigerians to join us in defending the integrity of our party and ensuring justice prevails.”

The press conference concluded with a vow from the opposition coalition to continue defending the PDP against internal and external threats, promising to keep the public informed of further developments in the case.