The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the expulsion of House of Representatives member, Ikenga Ugochinyere, from the party by the Imo State chapter.
The NWC declared the expulsion, announced by the PDP executive in Ideato Local Government Area, as invalid and contrary to the party’s constitution.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, stated that Ugochinyere’s removal was not in compliance with the party’s established procedures, citing Sections 57(7) and 59(3) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).
The expulsion was announced on Friday by the Imo PDP Publicity Secretary, Lancelot Obiak, after the party executive in Ideato LGA issued a letter dated December 5, 2024, accusing Ugochinyere of gross indiscipline, insubordination, and anti-party activities.
However, Ologunagba clarified that only the National Executive Committee (NEC) has the authority to expel or discipline members of the National Assembly, including Ugochinyere, in accordance with the party’s constitution.
He explained that the expulsion was not legitimate, as it failed to follow the correct processes.
The statement from the NWC read, in part: “The NWC of the PDP has reviewed the situation and declares the expulsion of Hon. Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu as null and void. This action was not in line with the clear provisions of Sections 57(7) and 59(3) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), which govern discipline within the party.”
Ologunagba stressed that no ward, local government, or state executive has the authority to discipline National Assembly members without the NWC’s consultation.
He further emphasized the importance of adherence to the party’s constitution and rules.
The NWC reiterated that Ugochinyere remains a full member of the PDP, with all associated rights and responsibilities.
Party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters were urged to disregard the expulsion and to remain united in the interest of the party.
