Chief Dan Orbih, the South-South Zonal Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has threatened to arrest individuals impersonating as members of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee.
Before leaving office, former Governor Godwin Obaseki inaugurated a Caretaker Committee for the PDP.
He had appointed Tony Aziegbemi, the former state chairman, as head of the 10-member committee, with Henry Duke Tenebe as secretary.
Other committee members include:Chris Nehikhare, Publicity Secretary,Harrison Omagbon, Fidel Igenegbale, Tony Anenih Jnr, Archbishop Anthony Okosun.
Completing the list are, Segun Saiki, Adezat Kuburat Ibrahim and Augustine Edosomwan
Orbih, however, issued his warning during an enlarged meeting of party leaders from the 18 local government areas on Tuesday in Benin
He said that those falsely claiming to be Edo PDP caretaker committee members were not recognised by the party’s constitution and should cease immediately.
“If they continue, we will stop them. When you’re not a soldier but wear the uniform and call yourself one, that’s impersonation,” Orbih warned.
“The law is clear, and it must take its course because these individuals are not part of the Edo PDP caretaker committee.”
He further stated that “most of these individuals” had no constitutional backing within the party and should refrain from their activities to avoid legal consequences.
Orbih also criticised the current state of the Edo PDP, blaming former Governor Obaseki’s leadership for leaving the party in disarray.
He assured party members that efforts were underway to rebuild and strengthen the PDP, with dedicated leaders working daily toward that goal.
“Those responsible for the party’s destruction under the former governor should not be seen as members of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee,” he added.
According to him, the party currently lacks a functional secretariat, making it “a homeless entity in the state.”
“I have instructed party leaders to identify a suitable secretariat, and I will personally fund it to ensure the PDP has a proper office,” Orbih pledged.
He assured members that all petitions sent to his office would be addressed, adding that the public would soon hear more from the party as “we begin efforts to restore the PDP’s standing in Edo State.”
He also expressed gratitude to party leaders who travelled to Calabar for the February 20 South-South Zonal Congress, where he was re-elected.
The PDP’s Secretary, Hillary Otsu, acknowledged the party’s current disarray, stating that rebuilding efforts were necessary.
“That is why we have gathered here today, to discuss a progressive way forward,” he said.
Similarly. Nosakhare Ogieva Okunbor, a prominent party chieftain, on behalf of members, congratulated Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the PDP National Secretary, on his Supreme Court victory.
