PDP Disowns Deputy Spokesperson, Sparks Fresh Crisis Over Unauthorized Press Conference

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) found itself embroiled in a deeper internal crisis on Friday after its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdulahi, was publicly disowned by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The controversy erupted following a press conference in Abuja, where Abdulahi contradicted the party’s prior endorsement of the Governor Siminalayi Fubara-backed executive committee in Rivers State. He also accused Ologunagba of misrepresenting the National Working Committee’s (NWC) position on significant issues, including a court ruling on Rivers State congresses and the party’s National Secretary leadership.

In a swift reaction, Ologunagba disavowed Abdulahi’s actions, asserting that the deputy lacked the authority to speak on behalf of the party without explicit approval. Speaking to Saturday Tribune, Ologunagba clarified that no delegation had been given to Abdulahi, emphasizing that all party communications must follow established constitutional protocols.

“The chairman cannot delegate anyone to speak for the party when the National Publicity Secretary is available,” Ologunagba stated, highlighting that Abdulahi’s actions breached party rules requiring explicit authorization for deputies.

During the controversial press conference, Abdulahi accused the PDP leadership of neglecting to formally adopt a court ruling that upheld the Ewor-led Rivers State executive committee. He refuted Ologunagba’s earlier claim that the NWC had endorsed the judgement, alleging that no NWC meeting had taken place since September 2024.

“The NWC has not convened to adopt any judgement regarding Rivers State. Ologunagba’s assertions are baseless,” Abdulahi stated, claiming his actions were under the directive of the acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Damagum.

Abdulahi further criticized Ologunagba’s management of internal conflicts, alleging unilateral decisions driven by personal biases.