The Edo State Working Committee of the People Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a decisive stance by expelling prominent members including former deputy governor Philip Shaibu and the South-South vice chairman, Dan Orbih. This decision was solidified during a meeting held yesterday, where the committee also confirmed the expulsion of Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a former House of Representatives member. His expulsion had been previously initiated by Ward 2 of the Oredo local government area on Tuesday.
The nine-member State Working Committee (SWC), chaired by Tony Aziegbemi, convened to deliberate on these expulsions. The meeting saw the participation of seven other committee members and Tony Anenih Jr., who joined the discussions virtually. The consensus was clear: these individuals were no longer aligned with the PDP’s goals and values, necessitating their removal from the party.
Aziegbemi elaborated on the rationale behind these expulsions, emphasizing that the actions of Shaibu, Orbih, and Ogbeide-Ihama were fundamentally against the interests of the PDP. “Their expulsion was necessary due to their anti-party activities,” he stated, underscoring the importance of party loyalty and discipline. Aziegbemi pointed out that their conduct had demonstrated a clear departure from the party’s principles, making their continued membership untenable.
The chairman expressed confidence that the PDP would remain unaffected by these expulsions, particularly in the context of the upcoming September 21 governorship election. He assured party members and supporters that the PDP was strategically positioned to secure victory at the polls.
Expounding on Dan Orbih’s case, Aziegbemi revealed that Orbih had been actively encouraging PDP members to defect to the opposition. Additionally, Orbih had accepted an appointment as a governing council member of a third-tier institution without consulting the PDP, further indicating his disloyalty. Such actions were deemed incompatible with the responsibilities and expectations of a PDP leader.
Regarding Philip Shaibu, Aziegbemi noted several instances of misconduct. “Shaibu donated about 15 vehicles to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has also been abusing and disrespectful to the leaders of the party in the state,” he said. These actions, coupled with Shaibu’s disparaging remarks about party leaders, underscored his lack of commitment to the PDP. Aziegbemi stressed that such behavior could not be condoned within the party.
Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama’s expulsion was similarly justified. Aziegbemi detailed how Ogbeide-Ihama had donated his property on Sakponba Road to the APC for campaign activities. The property, prominently displaying the billboard of the APC candidate and his running mate, symbolized a significant betrayal of the PDP. This blatant support for the opposition was a clear violation of party loyalty, warranting his expulsion.
The PDP, Aziegbemi asserted, is working collaboratively with other stakeholders to ensure a successful outcome in the September elections. The party remains undeterred by the recent expulsions and is focused on mobilizing support and resources to secure a win. He reiterated that the PDP’s commitment to its principles and its strategic preparations would see it through to victory.
In summary, the expulsion of Philip Shaibu, Dan Orbih, and Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama from the PDP underscores the party’s firm stance on loyalty and discipline. The actions leading to their expulsion reflect a breach of trust and a departure from the party’s core values. As the PDP gears up for the September governorship election, it remains confident in its strategy and the support of its members, determined to uphold its principles and secure a successful electoral outcome.
