There was mild unrest at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat in Cross River State on Monday as members of the party staged a protest against the purported reinstatement plan of ousted state chairman Venatius Ikem.
The State Working Committee (SWC) fired Ichem two weeks ago on charges of financial misappropriation, tyranny and incompetence.
But Ikem has refused to be removed, saying it is unconstitutional and threatening legal action to challenge the decision.
During Monday’s protest, PDP MPs from wards and local government branches in the state gathered at the secretariat, chanting “Ikem must go”, “All wards and local governments reject Vena”, “SWC’s He held a placard that read, “The decision is…”. Perfect for parties. ”
The protesters led by the Calabar City Chairman of the PDP, Bassey Asuquo, declared that Ikem’s removal is necessary for the growth of the party.
The demonstrators also claimed that Ikem’s leadership style was causing division within the party and threatened to leave the party en masse if he was reinstated.
“We, the chapter leaders across the state, support anything to grow the party, including the removal of anyone,” Asuquo said.
“The people should let Ikem go in the interest of PDP in Cross River. If Mr. Ikem is not removed, we will leave the party for him.”
Meanwhile, the party’s deputy provincial chairman, Chief Dennis Nkili, who received the protesters, assured them that the right thing would be done for the growth of the party.
Similarly, the PDP State Public Relations Secretary, Mike Ojisi, said, “We want Jonah to be taken off the ship so that it does not sink.”
