NDC in Enugu reacts to purported suspension of SKC Ogbonnia Adenle Ahmed Abiola

The Enugu State Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Johnpaul Anih, has dismissed reports of the purported suspension of one of the party’s leader in the state, Dr. SKC Ogbonnia, describing the claim as the work of a “faceless committee of friends” without constitutional authority.

Anih made the clarification in a statement while also speaking on the party’s preparedness for the forthcoming elections.

He said Ogbonnia remained a bona fide member and a respected leader of the party, stressing that he had neither been suspended nor expelled from the NDC.

He said the party’s leadership was compelled to respond to the purported suspension because those behind it appeared determined to mislead members of the public and create confusion within the party.

According to him, Ogbonnia had not been found guilty of any offence against the party and had not engaged in any anti-party activity that could warrant disciplinary action.

Anih also questioned the authority of those who allegedly announced the suspension, asking which provision of the NDC Constitution empowered them to take such action.

He queried whether any properly constituted organ of the party had convened to deliberate on the alleged offence, whether any charge had been brought against Ogbonnia, and whether the affected party member 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 purported suspension as “political theatre,” insisting that the Enugu State chapter would not recognise decisions taken by individuals or groups operating outside the party’s constitutionally established organs.

He maintained that membership of the party did not automatically confer on individuals the power to suspend other members, adding that party authority could only be exercised through recognised and properly constituted organs.

Anih accused those behind the development of attempting to manufacture authority they did not possess, urging them to respect the party’s constitution and established structures.

He said the legitimate leadership of the NDC in Enugu was instead focused on strengthening the party’s structures, mobilising members and preparing for the forthcoming elections.

“Dr. SKC Ogbonnia remains a bona fide member and a cherished leader of the party,” Anih declared.