The Enugu State Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Johnpaul Anih, has dismissed reports purporting the suspension of Dr. SKC Ogbonnia from the party, describing the claim as baseless, mischievous and the handiwork of individuals who have no authority within the NDC.
Dr. Anih, who spoke on Saturday while addressing journalists in Enugu on the party’s preparedness for the forthcoming elections, said Dr. Ogbonnia remains a respected leader and prominent stakeholder in the Enugu State chapter of the NDC.
According to him, there is no decision of any properly constituted organ of the party suspending Dr. Ogbonnia, stressing that the purported suspension did not emanate from the legitimate leadership of the NDC in the state that emerged through a valid congress monitored by INEC.
He further clarified that at no time has Dr. SKC Ogbonnia been suspended or expelled from the NDC, and at no time has he engaged in any anti-party activity or conduct capable of warranting such disciplinary action.
Anih said Dr. Ogbonnia remains a bona fide and valued member of the party, adding that there is therefore no basis whatsoever for the purported suspension.
He described individuals behind the alleged suspension as a “faceless group” whose pronouncement carries no weight because, according to him, its members are neither recognised party officials nor authorised to take disciplinary decisions on behalf of the NDC.
“Dr. SKC Ogbonnia remains a respected leader of our party. Nobody should be deceived by the antics of individuals who have no constitutional authority to suspend or discipline any member of the NDC.
“How can people who are not members of the party wake up and announce the suspension of a respected party leader? On what authority? Who mandated them? Where is the resolution of the appropriate party organ?” Dr. Anih queried.
The NDC chairman urged party members, supporters and the public to disregard the purported suspension, insisting that the party remains focused on strengthening its structures and mobilising its members ahead of the upcoming elections.
He said the NDC under his leadership would continue to operate in accordance with the party’s constitution and applicable electoral laws, while ensuring that legitimate party organs are respected.
“The NDC is bigger than the personal ambitions of any individual. We will not allow people who are outside the recognised structure of the party to create confusion, mislead our members or undermine the credibility of our leadership,” he said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Enugu State NDC leadership to a robust and issue-driven campaign, saying the party was fully prepared to participate in the forthcoming elections and would continue to engage voters across the state.
Dr. Anih also called on NDC members to remain calm, united and focused, assuring them that the leadership would continue to provide the necessary direction as the party intensifies its preparations for the elections.
