The Cross River State Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has welcomed a recent Court of Appeal judgment affirming the suspension of A.K. Ajibade (SAN), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and others, describing the ruling as a victory for the rule of law and internal party democracy.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Barrister Tim Ogar Ekawu, the party said the judgment validated the earlier decision of the National Executive Committee (NEC) to suspend the affected individuals, while reinforcing the supremacy of the PDP constitution and established party procedures.
According to the statement, the court’s decision aligns with previous judicial pronouncements on the matter and effectively nullifies any claims to legitimacy or authority previously made by the suspended members.
“The judgment stands as a resounding victory for the rule of law, internal party democracy, and the supremacy of our party’s constitution,” the statement said. “It reaffirms that discipline and adherence to party rules remain the bedrock of constitutional democracy.”
The Cross River PDP maintained that the ruling has brought an end to what it described as “manufactured factionalism” within the party, stressing that any actions or statements made by the suspended individuals in the name of the PDP no longer carry legal or political weight.
The committee further stated that the judgment strengthens the position of the 13-member Interim National Working Committee (INWC) led by former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Dr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), which it described as the legally recognized leadership of the party.
Barrister Ekawu noted that the ruling was not merely a victory for the party’s leadership but also for members who believe in the supremacy of institutions over individual interests.
He urged party members, stakeholders, and supporters across the country to rally behind the Turaki-led leadership and work collectively toward rebuilding and strengthening the PDP ahead of future political contests.
The Cross River PDP also called on aggrieved members to embrace reconciliation and respect the judicial process, emphasizing the need for unity and cohesion within the party.
According to the statement, the party’s priority is now to consolidate its structures, mobilize supporters, and present a formidable opposition capable of challenging for power in the 2027 general elections.
The party expressed confidence that with renewed unity and adherence to constitutional principles, it would be better positioned to provide credible leadership and contribute to Nigeria’s democratic development.