Ibori’s Daughter Challenges PDP’s Decision to Declare Her Seat Vacant

Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the daughter of former Delta State Governor James Ibori, has taken legal action following the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) decision to declare her seat in the Delta State House of Assembly vacant. The PDP cited her alleged defection to the opposition party as the basis for its decision, sparking a political standoff.

The PDP leadership recently issued a public statement justifying its decision, claiming that Ibori-Suenu’s purported defection violated the provisions of the party’s constitution and the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria. According to the party, her actions effectively disqualified her from retaining her legislative seat, which was won under the PDP platform.

However, Ibori-Suenu has denied the claims of defection, calling them politically motivated and baseless. In her court filing, she argued that her allegiance to the PDP has never wavered and accused certain party officials of orchestrating the move to settle political scores. She further stated that the declaration of her seat as vacant undermines the will of the constituents who elected her to represent them.

Speaking through her legal counsel, Ibori-Suenu emphasized that the PDP’s decision lacked due process and was in clear violation of the law. Her lawyers argued that the Constitution allows for freedom of association and prohibits undue interference in the operations of elected officials. They also warned that the decision could set a dangerous precedent for political maneuvering in the legislature.

This development comes amid growing tension within the Delta State chapter of the PDP, where factions have been engaged in power struggles following the 2023 general elections. Analysts believe that Ibori-Suenu’s case could intensify these rifts and potentially weaken the party’s influence in the state.

In response to the legal challenge, the PDP has maintained its stance, stating that it acted within its rights to protect the integrity of the party and uphold party discipline. The party insists that loyalty to the platform under which a candidate was elected is non-negotiable.

Observers are closely watching how the case unfolds, as it could have far-reaching implications for intra-party politics and the interpretation of constitutional provisions regarding defections and legislative seats. Ibori-Suenu’s legal battle also highlights the challenges faced by politicians navigating Nigeria’s complex political landscape, where loyalty and ambition often collide.

The court is expected to begin hearing the case in the coming weeks, with many stakeholders eagerly awaiting a resolution. Meanwhile, constituents of Ibori-Suenu’s constituency have expressed mixed reactions, with some standing firmly behind her while others criticize the ongoing controversy as a distraction from governance.

As the drama unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the judiciary will side with the embattled legislator or uphold the PDP’s decision, potentially reshaping the dynamics of Delta State politics.