"No Return for Defected Rivers Lawmakers, Seats Declared Vacant"

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has firmly stated that it will not change its stance on the vacation of seats by former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This announcement comes amid rumors on social media suggesting that the PDP might be pressured into reversing its position and allowing the defected lawmakers to return to their seats.

The PDP has made it clear that the 27 lawmakers who publicly announced their defection from the PDP to the APC on December 11, 2023, are no longer recognized as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, emphasized in a recent statement that the party’s stance remains unchanged despite any external pressures or attempts at compromise.

According to the PDP, the lawmakers’ decision to defect to the APC constitutes a significant constitutional violation, and the party is resolute in its position that these members have forfeited their seats. This position is not just the party’s internal decision but is also supported by numerous judicial rulings from the highest courts in Nigeria. The PDP insists that there is a strong legal basis for their claim, and they have no intention of backing down.

In the statement, Ologunagba highlighted that the PDP’s National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, SAN, had made a clear counterclaim in the case filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case, identified as Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1681/2023, explicitly states that the defected lawmakers ceased to be members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from the moment they announced their defection.

The PDP’s unwavering position is that the defected lawmakers committed an unpardonable breach of the constitution by switching parties. The party views this act as not only a betrayal of the party but also a disrespect to the electorate who voted them into office under the PDP’s platform.

Furthermore, the PDP’s statement addresses and dismisses the reports circulating on social media about potential compromises. The party clarified that it is not susceptible to any form of influence or pressure that might lead to a change in their position. The party remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that constitutional breaches are dealt with appropriately.

The party’s stance is also aimed at maintaining discipline and integrity within its ranks. By taking a firm stand against the defectors, the PDP aims to send a clear message to its members and the public that loyalty and adherence to the party’s principles are paramount. This move is also intended to deter future defections and ensure that party members are fully committed to the party’s goals and values.

The PDP believes that this decision is crucial for the stability and unity of the party, especially in the lead-up to future elections. The party’s leadership is confident that their decision will be upheld by the courts and that justice will prevail.

The PDP’s position on the defection of the Rivers State lawmakers is clear and uncompromising. The party views the defectors as having lost their seats as of December 11, 2023, and remains steadfast in its resolve not to alter this stance. The PDP’s commitment to upholding constitutional provisions and maintaining party discipline underscores its determination to ensure the integrity and stability of the party. Despite rumors and external pressures, the PDP stands firm in its decision, confident in the legal support for its position.