The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed recent claims by the party’s National Vice Chairman (South-South), Chief Dan Orbih, over the dissolution of zonal committee executives, describing his assertions as “misleading, self-serving, and a gross misrepresentation of internal party decisions.”

The state PDP leadership made its position known in a press statement issued on Wednesday following remarks made by Orbih during a press conference in Abuja. In his comments, Orbih alleged that the dissolution of the South-South Zonal Executive Committee of the PDP was unconstitutional and motivated by internal power struggles, particularly as the party prepares for the September 2025 Edo State gubernatorial election.

According to him, the move was targeted at marginalizing key stakeholders in the South-South, including himself, and suppressing dissent within the party.

“This action reeks of desperation and is designed to silence voices of reason in the zone. It was carried out without proper consultation and does not follow the due process stipulated in the PDP constitution,” Orbih had alleged.

Edo PDP Reacts Swiftly

In a swift rebuttal, the Edo PDP accused Orbih of attempting to incite division within the party ranks ahead of a critical election year, stating that his narrative was inaccurate and misleading. The party emphasized that the decision to dissolve the zonal executive committee was taken in line with party guidelines and with the broader interest of unity and reorganization.

“Chief Orbih is fully aware that the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) has the constitutional authority to review, restructure, and dissolve committees where necessary, especially when such actions are in the best interest of the party’s growth,” the statement read.

The Edo PDP further clarified that the dissolution was part of a national-wide restructuring aimed at reinvigorating the party’s base, strengthening internal democracy, and preparing the party for future electoral challenges.

Background to the Dispute

The latest development is another chapter in the long-running internal wrangling within the Edo PDP, particularly between loyalists of Governor Godwin Obaseki and those aligned with Dan Orbih, a former Edo State PDP chairman and current South-South vice-chairman.

Tensions between both factions escalated after Governor Obaseki’s defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP in 2020, which realigned political loyalties and redefined the party’s power dynamics in Edo State. While Obaseki brought along his loyalists into the PDP, some legacy members of the party, including Orbih, have continued to challenge what they perceive as marginalization.

The dissolution of the zonal executive committee — which had several members loyal to Orbih — is being viewed by analysts as part of a larger effort by the PDP national leadership to neutralize internal dissent and create a level playing field ahead of the upcoming governorship election.

Stakeholders Urge Reconciliation

As the public war of words continues, party stakeholders across the South-South zone have called for calm and reconciliation. Former Senator representing Edo South, Matthew Urhoghide, urged party leaders to avoid airing internal disagreements publicly and instead work toward a united front.

“This is not the time to expose our house to ridicule. The PDP has always thrived when we stand together. Personal grievances must give way to party interest,” he advised.

Similarly, youth and women leaders within the Edo PDP called for inclusive dialogue and transparency in party affairs, warning that unresolved divisions could cost the party dearly in the next elections.

“The people are watching. If we don’t resolve these issues internally, we risk losing public trust. Everyone must be carried along,” said Mrs. Ngozi Eboh, a women’s wing coordinator from Esan West.

National Leadership Weighs In

Meanwhile, the PDP National Working Committee has reaffirmed the legality of the dissolution and denied any targeted political witch-hunt. According to the party’s national publicity secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the decision was taken following wide consultations and with the aim of repositioning the party for efficiency.

“Every decision taken by the NWC is guided by the constitution of the party. It is unfortunate that some members would rather go to the media than engage constructively. This does not help our party,” Ologunagba stated.

He further appealed to all party members in the South-South zone to remain loyal and patient, assuring that the reconstitution of the zonal committee would reflect fairness, inclusivity, and competence.

Looking Ahead to 2025

With the Edo State governorship election less than 18 months away, the internal cohesion of the PDP will be critical to its success at the polls. Observers believe that the current rift between Orbih and the state leadership could either serve as a wake-up call or further deepen existing fractures within the party.

For now, the Edo PDP appears determined to move forward with its restructuring agenda, while maintaining that the interests of the party must come before any individual ambitions.

“The people of Edo are looking for leadership, not division. We must rise above personal agendas and focus on delivering credible governance,” the party’s statement concluded.