Edo PDP faction rejects Aziegbemi’s comments on party leadership

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By Ozioruva Aliu

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BENIN CITY — A faction of the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected comments by Dr. Tony Aziegbemi on the party’s leadership, insisting he is not the recognised chairman of the party in the state.

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The development follows Aziegbemi’s criticism of Hon. Austin Nwachukwu, who addressed a recent press conference as Chairman of the Forum of PDP State Chairmen.

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In a statement circulated on social media, Aziegbemi questioned Nwachukwu’s status, alleging that he had been suspended in October 2025. He also said he was nominated as chairman of the forum at a meeting and argued that the party’s leadership dispute remains before the courts, adding that Taminu Turaki, SAN, should not be described as an expelled member of the PDP.

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However, in a statement signed by its chairman and secretary, Nosa Ogieva-Okunbor and Chief Hilary Otsu, the Edo PDP faction dismissed Aziegbemi’s position, stating that he lacks the authority to speak on behalf of the party in the state.

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The statement urged party members, the media and the public to disregard Aziegbemi’s comments.

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It also declared the faction’s support for the position presented by Nwachukwu, whom it recognised as Chairman of the Forum of PDP State Chairmen.

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According to the statement, the forum’s position reflects a commitment to constitutional order, party discipline, internal democracy and the preservation of the PDP’s integrity.

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The faction maintained that the PDP is governed by its constitution, established procedures and the rule of law, stressing that adherence to due process is essential to safeguarding the party’s integrity.

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It called on party members in Edo State and across the country to remain calm and focused amid the ongoing leadership dispute.

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