By Steve Oko

Elders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State have cautioned the party’s immediate past Acting Publicity Secretary, Elder Abraham Amah, over his purported suspension of the Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Adolphus Wabara.

Amah, who also claims to be the chairman of the PDP in Abia, had on Tuesday announced Wabara’s suspension over alleged anti-party activities.

Wabara’s alleged offense, according to Amah, was his October 2023 commendation of Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party for awarding a contract to rehabilitate the long-abandoned Port Harcourt Road in Aba. Wabara, a former Senate President from Ukwa, had praised Otti’s initiative, stating it was a bold step that could earn him a second term.

Angered by Amah’s move, PDP elders warned against unnecessary political conflicts.

Speaking to Vanguard, former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Eme Okoro, criticized Amah and his sponsors for disrespecting party elders. He questioned Amah’s authority, arguing that even if Wabara had erred, “the party has a process for addressing such matters.”

Okoro rebuked Amah for disregarding party procedures, saying: “Every organized society has principles. Even the most disorganized political parties have constitutions, let alone the PDP, which has governed for decades.

“Amah and his so-called PDP executive in Abia, by virtue of the party’s constitution, cannot suspend the BoT Chairman.

“The constitution provides that even if Wabara violated party rules, he must be given the opportunity to respond to the charges. You did not present him with any charges, nor has he responded—yet you went ahead with a suspension!”**

Okoro praised the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) for nullifying the suspension, describing it as “a baseless attempt to attract attention.”

“It is null and void. It is unconstitutional for someone in a lower position to suspend a superior,” he stated.

Former PDP Chairman in Abia, Chief Tony Ukasanya, dismissed claims that Wabara’s comments constituted anti-party behavior.

“Expressing one’s opinion about a governor’s performance is not anti-party,” he said.

Ukasanya, who has retired from partisan politics, insisted that Wabara deserved commendation for speaking the truth.

“The PDP ruled Abia for over two decades yet failed to rehabilitate the road Otti is now fixing. Wabara only spoke the truth as an Abian, not as a PDP chieftain. Performance should not be politicized.”

Former Ukwa East/Ukwa West House of Representatives member, Hon. Nkem Abonta, urged party members to exercise restraint, warning that internal crises could hinder PDP’s chances in 2027.

“The PDP is trying to rebrand and correct past mistakes. Stirring up unnecessary conflict will only make this effort harder.

“Now, what exactly is Wabara’s offense? That he commended the governor for a project nearly two years ago? Why bring it up now? Will this bring peace to the party?

“Amah and his allies should ask themselves whether their actions align with the PDP constitution. Lawlessness benefits no one. Instead, they are exposing the party to ridicule.”**

Abonta also questioned Amah’s legitimacy as chairman, noting that his election was being contested in court.

“The congress that produced him was held despite a court order stopping it. I am not aware of any ruling that lifted that injunction. If the congress violated a court order, we all know the legal consequences.”

Dr. Okoro defended Wabara’s remarks, emphasizing that governance should be separated from politics.

“Wabara committed no crime by acknowledging good governance. If Governor Otti is doing well, I will say so. If he is not, I will also say so.

“Wabara’s leadership in the BoT has restored confidence in the party. His stance on equity and constitutionality must be respected.”**

The PDP elders urged members to prioritize party unity and avoid actions that could further divide the party.