The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expelled its National Vice Chairman for the South-East, Ali Odefa.
Odefa’s expulsion marks a dramatic turning point in the ongoing internal struggle within the party.
This comes after months of tension and accusations against him for allegedly engaging in activities against the party’s interests.
On December 11, 2024, the Oguduokwor Ward of the PDP in Onicha Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, made the announcement.
The expulsion was confirmed in a press conference held by the Ward Chairman, Mr. Onyeka Ovuta, in Onicha.
Ovuta explained that Odefa’s expulsion followed the recommendation of the party’s disciplinary committee, which confirmed the allegations of anti-party activities against him.
The saga surrounding Odefa’s suspension and eventual expulsion began in September 2024.
On September 11, the PDP Oguduokwor Ward Executives suspended him for alleged misconduct.
The accusations included claims that Odefa had been involved in actions that worked against the party’s unity and objectives.
After his suspension, the matter was taken to court, where a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abakaliki on November 29, 2024, upheld the suspension.
The court’s decision affirmed the charges against him, giving the party a legal backing for further disciplinary action.
In his announcement, Mr. Ovuta stated that the expulsion was in line with the party’s constitution.
According to the PDP constitution, the party’s disciplinary committee has the authority to investigate and recommend actions against any member found guilty of actions that undermine the party’s interests.
“The expulsion of Odefa follows the report, findings, and recommendations of the Ward Disciplinary Committee,” Ovuta said.
“This is in compliance with sections 58(1) and 59(1) of the PDP constitution.”
Though the exact details of Odefa’s alleged misconduct remain unclear, sources within the party suggest that his actions were seen as a betrayal.
It is widely believed that Odefa was accused of supporting factions outside the PDP, which the party sees as detrimental to its progress.
The expulsion comes at a time when the PDP is facing internal struggles and attempting to unite ahead of future elections.
A party that has faced several defections and leadership crises, the PDP is determined to weed out members who might hinder its chances.
Ali Odefa’s expulsion sends a clear message to other party members that anti-party activities will not be tolerated.
As of now, Ali Odefa has not publicly reacted to the expulsion.
However, given his position as the National Vice Chairman of the PDP in the South-East, his removal is expected to have significant political repercussions.
Many observers believe that his expulsion could shake the party’s support base in the South-East region, where he has had considerable influence.
Political analysts are already speculating that Odefa’s next steps could involve a defection to another political party or a new movement aimed at countering the current leadership of the PDP.
The PDP leadership has been vocal about its commitment to discipline and unity within the party.
The party has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including disputes over its leadership and allegations of corruption.
The expulsion of Odefa is seen as part of an effort by the party to reassert control and strengthen its structure ahead of future elections.
For the PDP, maintaining internal discipline is crucial, especially in the face of competition from other political parties like the All Progressives Congress (APC).
With state elections around the corner, the PDP cannot afford to be seen as weak or divided.
