A Federal High Court in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, has affirmed the expulsion of Chief Ali Odefa, the National Vice Chairman of the PDP South-East, from the party. This ruling marks a significant step in enforcing internal party discipline amid allegations of anti-party activities.
Odefa was initially suspended by the executive committee of his Oguduokwor Ward in Onicha Local Government Area on October 4, 2024, following accusations that he engaged in activities contrary to the PDP’s interests. Despite the suspension, Odefa dismissed the move as ineffective and continued to operate as the leader for the South-East region.
In response to his continued defiance, the ward’s executive committee took decisive action by formally expelling him after he failed to appear before a disciplinary panel. The committee then moved to seek judicial validation of their decision, aiming to solidify the party’s stance on upholding its internal standards.
In Suit No. FHC/AI/CS/182/2024, filed by Oguduokwor Ward Chairman Herbert Ovuta, Justice Hilary Oshomah ruled in favor of the ward executive committee, declaring that Odefa’s expulsion was valid. The judgment granted all reliefs sought by the committee, reinforcing the party’s commitment to accountability.
However, the court declined to grant the additional N5 million cost claim requested against Odefa, leaving that particular issue unresolved.
