By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo.
A group, the PDP Advocates for Peace and Justice has condemned in strong terms a meeting convened by the “sacked” chairman of the party in Akwa Ibom, Mr Aniekan Akpan, describing it as a desperate attempt to regain relevance.
In a statement in Uyo in Sunday, endorsed by it’s chairman, Dr Tom Fredfish, the group wondered why Akpan should suddenly call for a crucial meeting after months of silence following the defection of Governor Umo Eno to the APC.
The statement said that the former chairman has lost any constitutional authority to call for a meeting after his removal by the national leadership of the party
“It is embarrassing that after five months of inaction and silence following Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the APC, Aniekan Akpan has suddenly remembered to “unite the party,” only after he has been officially removed by the PDP National Working Committee.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Aniekan Akpan has been sacked by the National Leadership of the PDP, he no longer holds any constitutional authority to convene meetings or speak for the party, and any so-called vote of confidence obtained under his supervision is null, void, and politically irrelevant.
” His actions amount to superintending over illegality and misleading the public into believing he still occupies an office that he has already lost.” It said.
It maintained that the only legitimately recognized leadership of the PDP in Akwa Ibom remained that of Mr Igwat Umoren, “who is working closely with the National Leadership to rebuild party structures, restore internal democracy, mobilize true stakeholders across all levels for meaningful impact in the 2027 elections.
“This new leadership is the face of renewal, unity, and progress within the party.
“Furthermore, it is an open secret that Aniekan Akpan has been fraternizing with the APC while pretending to remain in the PDP. No one can serve two masters; therefore, he should stop deceiving the public, quit the PDP, and formally register with his new political home – the APC.”
The PDP in Akwa Ibom the statement further said has moved forward with fresh leadership, a clear vision, and renewed strength adding that,”no amount of political theatre by a former chairman seeking relevance will derail the party’s commitment to unity, justice, and victory.”
It would be recalled that the leadership of the party in the state has been in contention after a letter sacking Akpan and endorsed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary was later countered by anorher letter from the National Secretary of the party.
