Delta PDP: Team Esimaje Awani Demands Suspension Reversal

The leadership of Team Esimaje Awani (TEA), a political group operating under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Warri South Local Government Area, has vehemently rejected the purported suspension of its coordinators, terming it “illegal” and “unconstitutional.”

In a letter addressed to the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area PDP, the group raised concerns over the suspension letters circulating on social media, which they claim are based on unfounded claims. TEA, which has been active since 2022, noted that it had been in continuous communication with the party leadership at the state, local government, and ward levels, without any objections raised regarding its operations.

According to the group, the suspension came as a surprise, especially given TEA’s active participation in the 2023 general elections, where it contributed to the success of PDP candidates across various levels.

“The suspension of our coordinators is not only a violation of our constitutional rights but also a breach of the PDP Constitution and the Nigerian Constitution,” said a representative from TEA. The group further argued that the suspension was executed without any prior notice, fair hearing, or internal dispute resolution processes, as guaranteed under Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution.

The names of the suspended members, who serve as coordinators for various wards in Warri South, were listed in the letter. Among them are Hon. Humphrey Tuoyo (L.G.A Coordinator), Comr. Solomon Ojobor (Coordinator Ward 4), and several others.

TEA has called for the immediate reversal of the suspensions, citing a violation of their rights to free association under Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution. The group warned that if the issue is not resolved within 14 days, the affected individuals will pursue legal action in a court of competent jurisdiction.

“We remain loyal members of the People’s Democratic Party, and we are committed to the party’s ideals and vision,” the letter concluded.

The suspension was announced on Friday, December 6, 2024, following alleged misconduct and activities the party claims violate its constitution.

In a formal notice issued by the Ward Chairman, Mr. Tosar Sholuwa, the leader of the group, Esimaje Awani was accused of participating in the formation of a parallel PDP Executive Committee (EXCO) group known as the “PDP TEA Group.

They were also accused of working for the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the September 2024 Edo State gubernatorial elections, a move that reportedly goes against the party’s interests and aligns with a political rival. Awani is further alleged to have attended the swearing-in ceremony of Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on November 12, 2024, an event that was seen as a direct contradiction to the PDP’s stance.

The suspension follows a clear violation of several sections of the PDP’s constitution, particularly sections 58 (a), (b), (c), (1), (g), (h), and (i), which address discipline, loyalty, and party conduct.