Chief Dan Orbih, the South-South Zonal Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has issued a stern warning against individuals falsely presenting themselves as members of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, threatening legal action if the alleged impersonation continues.
The warning was delivered during an enlarged meeting of party leaders from all 18 local government areas of Edo State held in Benin City on Tuesday.
The dispute stems from the formation of a Caretaker Committee by former Governor Godwin Obaseki prior to leaving office. This committee, reportedly headed by former state chairman Tony Aziegbemi and Secretary Henry Duke Tenebe, includes figures like Chris Nehikhare (Publicity Secretary), Harrison Omagbon, Fidel Igenegbale, Tony Anenih Jnr, Archbishop Anthony Okosun, Segun Saiki, Adezat Kuburat Ibrahim, and Augustine Edosomwan.
Chief Orbih, however, maintains that individuals claiming membership in this committee without proper authorization are violating party regulations. “If they continue, we will stop them,” he declared.
“When you’re not a soldier but wear the uniform and call yourself one, that’s impersonation. The law is clear, and it must take its course because these individuals are not part of the Edo PDP caretaker committee,” he added. He emphasized that many of these individuals lack constitutional backing within the party and should cease their activities to avoid legal repercussions.
Orbih also directed criticism at the state of the Edo PDP, attributing its current disarray to the leadership of former Governor Obaseki. “Those responsible for the party’s destruction under the former governor should not be seen as members of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee,” he stated.
He assured party members of ongoing efforts to rebuild and fortify the PDP, highlighting the dedication of current leadership in achieving this goal.
Addressing the lack of a functional secretariat, which he described as leaving the party “a homeless entity in the state,” Orbih pledged personal financial support for establishing a new party headquarters. “I have instructed party leaders to identify a suitable secretariat, and I will personally fund it to ensure the PDP has a proper office,” he affirmed.
He also promised to address all petitions submitted to his office and indicated that the party would soon announce further plans to restore the PDP’s position in Edo State. “We begin efforts to restore the PDP’s standing in Edo State,” he stated, adding his appreciation to party leaders who attended the South-South Zonal Congress in Calabar on February 20, where he was re-elected.
Hillary Otsu, the PDP Secretary, acknowledged the party’s present difficulties, emphasizing the necessity of rebuilding efforts. “That is why we have gathered here today, to discuss a progressive way forward,” he explained.
In a show of solidarity, Nosakhare Ogieva Okunbor, a prominent party chieftain, conveyed congratulations from party members to Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the PDP National Secretary, on his recent victory at the Supreme Court.
