Edo PDP Expels Philip Shaibu, Dan Orbih, Ogbeide-Ihama
In a surprising turn of events, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expelled three prominent members: Dan Orbih, National Vice Chairman (South South); Phillip Shaibu, former Deputy Governor; and Omorgie Ogbeide-Ihama, former House of Representatives member. Here’s everything you need to know.
The Announcement
The expulsion was announced by the State Publicity Secretary, Ogie Vasco, who cited anti-party activities as the reason. The decision was made during a meeting on Tuesday, attended by nine members of the State Working Committee at the party’s secretariat in Benin City.
Vasco stated, “The SWC has extensively deliberated on the issue and resolved to expel with immediate effect, Chief Dan Orbih, National Vice Chairman South South; Phillip Shaibu; and upheld the expulsion of Ogbeide-Ihama from Ward 2, Oredo LGA.”
Orbih’s Response
Dan Orbih, however, dismissed the expulsion as unconstitutional. He argued that the State Working Committee doesn’t have the authority to expel a National Working Committee member without adhering to the party’s constitutional provisions.
“They are amusing their paymasters. They have no power to expel a member of the national committee. When a group of idle individuals sits down to make pronouncements that are unconstitutional, it only shows their ignorance of the party’s constitution. They don’t have the power to suspend or expel anyone without strictly following the party’s constitutional provisions,” Orbih stated.
The Backstory
The expulsion follows a series of controversial moves by the members. Shaibu and Ogbeide-Ihama had openly supported the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo. Additionally, Orbih was recently appointed to a board by President Bola Tinubu.
In a twist, the PDP in Oredo Ward 2 denied reports that its executives had suspended or expelled Ogbeide-Ihama, a former governorship aspirant in the state.
What’s Next?
This expulsion has created a stir within the party, raising questions about the internal politics and future dynamics of the PDP in Edo State. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these expelled members will respond and what impact this will have on the party’s structure and strategy.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding political drama.