From Victor Akinkuolie ,Ado-Ekiti
The crisis rocking the Ekiti State Chapter of the People’s Democtic Party (PDP) at the weekend assumed another dimension, as the party slammed suspension on all the National Assembly candidates.
The party had earlier suspended all the candidates contesting for the forthcoming National Assembly elections over what it called alleged anti -party activities by the candidates.
But reacting to the suspensions, in a Press Conference addressed by the Senatorial candidates, Alhaji Lateef Ajijola (Ekiti Central) and others, they described their suspension by the party as “unnecessary distraction,” saying that they will rather continue reaching out to voters in their various constituencies so as to emerge victorious in the elections.
The seven National Assembly candidates, who said the purported suspension will have no effect whatsoever on their candidacy, said “our concern now is how to win elections and we will not be distracted.”
Others present during the Press Conference are Mr Funso Ayeni (Ekiti North) as well as House of Representatives candidates, Otunba Yinka Akerele Mr Babatunde Ajayi, Lere Olayinka , Joju Fayose and Mrs Emiola Adenike Jennifer .
They called on members and supporters of the party in the State to remain calm, assuring that nothing will be left undone to ensure their deserved victory in the forthcoming elections.
While describing the party’s action as unfortunate and unguided, they said by the Constitution of PDP, the purported suspension is null and void because none of them was informed of committing any offence.
“We were never informed of any wrong doing. They didn’t tell us our offense so that we can defend ourselves as provided by the party’s constitution and the constitution of Nigeria.
“Section 57 (6) of the PDP constitution is clear and unambiguous. It states that ‘Any decision taken against a member who has not been informed of the charges against him or has not been given any opportunity of defending himself shall be null and void.’
“Also, Section 33 of the Electoral Act is very clear on candidates for elections and as it is, we remain candidates in line with law and we shall remain focused. Our party is a constitutional institution and we will ensure it obeys its constitution.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Section 33 of the Electoral Act provides clearly that; ‘A political party shall not be allowed to change or substitute its candidate whose name has been submitted under Section 29 of this Act, except in the case of death or withdrawal by the candidate.’
“We are therefore unperturbed. Rather, we are being propelled to work harder to ensure victory in the elections while we explore appropriate means of handling the issues.
“Ultimately, it will be victory for us as candidates of the PDP.”
Members as well as supporters of the party should keep up with this spirit as we continue with our campaign activities.”
