Emeka-Yellow Ikpegbu, a leading figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Abia State, has commended the PDP governors for their recent show of support for Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State. Ikpegbu shared his thoughts during a press briefing in Umuahia on Thursday, highlighting the significance of this backing for both Fubara and the PDP as a whole.
Ikpegbu expressed approval for the governors’ unified stance, which he believes affirms the position of Senator Adolphus Wabara, the Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT). Wabara and other BoT members recently visited Fubara in Port Harcourt to demonstrate their solidarity with him amidst ongoing political tensions.
Last week, during a key meeting held in Jalingo, Taraba State, the PDP governors reiterated their unwavering support for Fubara. This support comes as Fubara faces a challenging situation with his predecessor, Mr. Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The conflict revolves around control of Rivers State, with Wike’s loyalists making significant moves against Fubara.
In recent developments, 25 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, loyal to Wike, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). These defections have led to threats of impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara. In response, the PDP governors expressed their frustration over what they perceived as efforts to undermine Fubara’s authority and obstruct his ability to lead effectively.
Ikpegbu praised the governors for their courage to confront these challenges openly, aligning with the views of the PDP BoT and other party leaders who support Fubara’s leadership. He emphasized that, according to the PDP’s constitution, Fubara should rightfully remain the party’s leader in Rivers State.
He also questioned the criticism directed at Senator Wabara, who has consistently supported Fubara’s role. Ikpegbu noted that the governors’ statements in Jalingo echoed Wabara’s stance from the Port Harcourt visit, highlighting a consistent position within the party. He stressed the importance of respecting party democracy and allowing Fubara to exercise his full rights as the PDP leader.
Ikpegbu warned against the negative effects of impunity, which he believes have harmed the PDP in the past. He underlined the need to adhere to the party’s hierarchy and constitution, praising the PDP’s experienced elders for their commitment to upholding justice and fairness within the party.
Ikpegbu called for transparency and equity in the PDP’s internal processes, stressing that all party members should feel included and valued. He urged the party to maintain its commitment to equity and democratic principles as it navigates these internal challenges.
