PDP Vows Legal Action Against Rivers Legislators Over Defection

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified moves to unseat lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly who again announced their defection from the party, declaring that it will activate constitutional provisions to reclaim the mandates “abandoned” by the legislators. The party described the repeat defections as a violation of the 1999 Constitution and an assault on legislative integrity.

PDP Condemns Repeat Defections

The PDP said the lawmakers had earlier defected, later reversed their position, and have now re-announced their departure. In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the party argued that the pattern amounted to a “politically choreographed” move intended to undermine democratic institutions in Rivers State.

According to Ememobong, the lawmakers’ conduct demonstrated disloyalty to the party on whose ticket they entered the House of Assembly. He described the group as “political puppets” and “a clog in the wheels of democratic progress,” adding that their actions would be remembered as damaging to the legislature and to democratic norms.

The PDP further argued that the legislators’ decision could not be considered a genuine defection from the PDP, insisting that their latest move represented a transfer from one faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to another, rather than a clear break from the PDP.

Constitutional Measures Planned

The party disclosed that it would pursue legal options available under the 1999 Constitution to enforce sanctions for lawmakers who leave the party under which they were elected. Ememobong stated that the party would seek judicial clarification and possible removal of the affected legislators in accordance with constitutional provisions.

He stressed that the mandates obtained by the lawmakers were the property of the Peoples Democratic Party and must therefore be reclaimed. While declining to release further legal details, he maintained that constitutional procedures would be strictly followed.

Despite the political tension, the PDP urged supporters in Rivers State to remain calm. The party assured its members that steps were being taken to strengthen internal structures and ensure discipline within its ranks.

PDP Calls for Calm and Reorganisation

Ememobong called on Peoples Democratic Party members in the state to remain steadfast during what he described as a period of political turbulence. He said the party’s leadership was focused on rebuilding its presence in Rivers State through fairness and inclusion.

The Peoples Democratic Party also noted that ongoing developments in Rivers State would not derail broader party reforms being pursued ahead of future elections. According to the leadership, internal restructuring would continue in preparation for a more unified party platform at both state and national levels.