The Enugu State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has denied reports that one of its leaders, Dr. SKC Ogbonnia, has been suspended from the party.
The state chairman, Dr. Johnpaul Anih, described the reported suspension as baseless, insisting that Ogbonnia remains a recognised member and leader of the party.
Anih said the purported action was allegedly the product of a “faceless committee of friends” which, according to him, has no constitutional mandate to suspend or expel any member of the NDC.
In a statement, the chairman said the party was compelled to clarify Ogbonnia’s status because the development could mislead the public and create unnecessary tension among members.
He maintained that Ogbonnia had neither been found guilty of any offence against the party nor accused of conduct that would warrant disciplinary measures.
Anih challenged the promoters of the purported suspension to point to the relevant provision of the NDC constitution authorising them to take such action.
He asked whether any recognised organ of the party had convened to consider allegations against Ogbonnia, whether formal charges had been filed and whether he had been given an opportunity to defend himself.
“Where is the resolution of the competent party organ? Where is the disciplinary process? Where is the notice of hearing? Where is the decision of the appropriate authority? There is none,” he said.
The NDC chairman described the development as “political theatre”, stressing that the state chapter would not recognise decisions taken by individuals or groups that were not constitutionally empowered to exercise disciplinary authority.
According to him, party membership alone does not confer the power to suspend other members, as such authority can only be exercised through duly constituted organs and established procedures.
Anih accused those behind the purported suspension of attempting to create authority outside the party’s recognised structure and urged them to adhere to the NDC constitution.
He said the Enugu leadership was focused on consolidating the party’s structures, mobilising supporters and positioning the organisation for forthcoming elections.
Anih therefore reaffirmed Ogbonnia’s standing in the party, declaring: “Dr. SKC Ogbonnia remains a bona fide member and a cherished leader of the party.”
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