The Jigawa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the suspension of former Governor Sule Lamido from the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), describing the decision as unjust, counterproductive, and damaging to party unity.
The BoT announced Lamido’s suspension on Friday, citing alleged anti-party activities and inflammatory statements during recent internal disputes.
The move has sparked controversy and heightened divisions within the party’s Jigawa chapter, raising concerns ahead of upcoming elections.
Reacting to the suspension, Jigawa PDP State Chairman Babandi Gumel, in a statement issued on Saturday in Dutse, said the action was a direct affront to justice, internal democracy, and reconciliation efforts championed by the party.
He noted that Lamido had sought judicial redress after being denied the opportunity to obtain a nomination form to contest the party’s national chairmanship.
“The Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in his favour, restraining the PDP from proceeding with its national convention until Lamido’s right to contest is determined,” Gumel said.
“Suspending him now is premature, prejudicial, and shows disrespect for the judicial process.”
He further highlighted Lamido’s loyalty to the party, noting that as a founding member, he has never defected to another party.
“Punishing such loyalty sends a chilling message to all dedicated members,” Gumel added.
The Jigawa PDP chairman emphasised that the party’s strength lies in inclusion rather than exclusion, and pointed out that the PDP constitution does not allow for the suspension of a “life member” like Lamido.
“The BoT must immediately and unconditionally withdraw the suspension, apologise to this elder statesman, and align its actions with recent calls for reconciliation.”
“The Jigawa PDP remains committed to a strong, united, and democratic party that respects the rule of law and the dignity of its members,” Gumel concluded.
