The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has embraced a major shake-up in its Rivers State chapter following a court ruling that nullified congresses held at the ward, local government, and state levels in 2024. This landmark decision has ushered in Honorable Robinson Ewor as the new leader of the party in the state, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing tussle for control within the PDP.
In a statement signed by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and released on the party’s official X handle, the National Working Committee (NWC) declared its acceptance of the judgement delivered by Justice Stephen Jumbo of the Rivers State High Court. The court ruled on January 13, 2025, that the congresses held on July 27, August 10, and August 31, 2024, were invalid and lacked legal standing.
“The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party acknowledges receipt, considered, and hereby accepts the judgment of the Rivers State High Court,” the statement read. “The NWC affirms the Hon. Robinson Ewor-led Rivers State Executive to henceforth pilot the affairs of the PDP Rivers State Chapter in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017).”
A Call for Unity and Stability
The party’s leadership urged its members to rally behind Ewor and work toward ensuring harmony and growth within the state chapter.
“The NWC calls on all leaders, critical stakeholders, members, and supporters of our Party in Rivers State and the nation to work with the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led Rivers State Executive to ensure unity, stability, growth, and the continuous success of the PDP in Rivers State,” Ologunagba stated.
The leadership further emphasized the need to strengthen the party’s foundation to deliver on its promises to the people of Rivers State, particularly under the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. “The Ewor-led Rivers State Executive is charged to work hard to further unite the Party in the State so that the people of Rivers State can continue to enjoy the massive dividends of democracy as being delivered by our performing governor, Sir. Siminalayi Fubara,” the statement added.
Court Case That Rocked Rivers PDP
The verdict by Justice Jumbo came as part of an interlocutory injunction filed by four party members, including Edwin Woko and Love Otuonye. The applicants sought to invalidate the congresses conducted by a faction loyal to former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The court’s ruling restrained Mr. Aaron, the erstwhile state chairman, and all other executives at the ward and local government levels from parading themselves as representatives of the PDP. Justice Jumbo stated that the congresses lacked legal foundation, rendering all resulting decisions null and void.
This development further underscores the widening rift between the factions led by Wike and Governor Fubara. The protracted disagreement between the two political heavyweights has deepened since Fubara’s ascension to power in 2023, with loyalists on both sides vying for dominance in Rivers State politics.
Implications of the Leadership Change
The emergence of Robinson Ewor as the new Rivers PDP chairman represents a significant victory for the Fubara-led faction. Analysts believe this could strengthen Governor Fubara’s grip on the state chapter of the party, potentially sidelining Wike loyalists who have long held sway in the state’s political landscape.
The PDP leadership, in its statement, lauded the court’s judgement as a testament to the party’s commitment to transparency and internal democracy. “The NWC commends the decision of the court which reaffirms the famed position of the PDP as the bastion of transparency in the due process of internal democracy and strict adherence to the Rule of Law,” the statement read.
Background on the Crisis
The conflict between Wike and Fubara began shortly after the latter assumed office as Rivers State Governor. Wike, who played a significant role in Fubara’s emergence as governor, reportedly became disillusioned with the administration’s approach to governance. This led to a bitter power struggle, with both camps accusing each other of undermining party unity and democratic principles.
In 2024, Wike’s loyalists organized congresses at various levels, an action contested by Fubara’s camp, which argued that the processes were biased and violated party guidelines. The case was eventually brought before the Rivers State High Court, resulting in this week’s landmark ruling.
PDP’s Broader Implications
The recent judgement and subsequent leadership change have broader implications for the PDP at the national level. As one of Nigeria’s most politically influential states, Rivers is a critical stronghold for the party. The resolution of this crisis could bolster the PDP’s chances in future elections, provided the new leadership successfully unites the state chapter.
Meanwhile, the party’s call for collaboration among its members highlights its desire to put internal squabbles behind and focus on delivering effective governance to Rivers people.
