PDP Suspends Rep. Awaji-inomek Abiante in Rivers State for Anti-Party Activities

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Nigeria has suspended Rep. Awaji-inomek Abiante for alleged anti-party activities, promoting factions, and equipping members for violence. The suspension was announced on April 30, 2024 by the Caretaker Committee Chairman of his Ward 1 Ngo town, Andoni, and the Secretary.

According to the statement, Abiante's actions were in violation of Sections 58 (1)(j) and 58 (1)(k) of the party's constitution. The specific allegations include promoting factions at the ward level, belonging to a group not provided for in the party's constitution, and organizing, training, and equipping a group of members for the purpose of employing violence, coercion, and other forms of intimidation within the party.

Why this matters: The suspension of Rep. Abiante highlights the ongoing challenges and internal conflicts within Nigeria's political parties. It emphasizes the need for party members to adhere to constitutional guidelines and maintain party unity to effectively serve their constituents.

The PDP Caretaker Committee Chairman and Secretary stated, "We are committed to the party and determined to weed out 'bad eggs' who are acting as agents of opposition political parties to weaken the party, regardless of their position." The party stressed its commitment to maintaining discipline and unity within its ranks.

Rep. Awaji-inomek Abiante, who represents Andoni/Opobo–Nkoro Federal Constituency in Rivers State, has not yet publicly responded to the suspension or the allegations made against him. The PDP's decision to suspend Abiante sends a strong message that anti-party activities and the promotion of violence will not be tolerated, as the party aims to strengthen its position in Rivers State and across Nigeria.

Key Takeaways

• PDP in Rivers, Nigeria suspended Rep. Awaji-inomek Abiante for anti-party activities.
• Abiante allegedly promoted factions, equipped members for violence, and violated party constitution.
• PDP vowed to weed out "bad eggs" and maintain discipline and unity within the party.
• Suspension highlights ongoing challenges and internal conflicts within Nigeria's political parties.
• PDP's action sends a strong message against anti-party activities and promotion of violence.