‘He remains bonafide member’ — PDP group condemns ‘suspension’ of Rivers rep member

The PDP National Solidarity Vanguard (PDP-NSV) has condemned the suspension of Awaji-Inombek Abiante, lawmaker representing Andoni/Opobo federal constituency in the house of representatives.

On Monday, Abiante was suspended by his ward executives in Ngo town, Andoni, over alleged anti-party activities by his ward.

Abiante is said to be one of the federal lawmakers in the house of representatives loyal to Siminalayi Fubara, the state governor.

In a statement on Wednesday signed by Rowland Ovie, national president of PDP-NSV, the group described the suspension as unlawful and baseless.

Ovie alleged that the ward executives from Ngor ward 1, Andoni LGA of Rivers state, who issued the suspension, are impostors and not even members of the party.

He added that Abiante is a time-tested party loyalist who has always stood for justice, equity and good governance, hence his support for Fubara.

“The purported suspension of Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante by some unknown persons claiming to be members of our great party is not only unlawful but laughable,” the statement reads.

“It is another political escapade gone wrong. We know those behind this show of shame and their paymasters. We are glad also that Nigerians know them as well.

“Abiante is a highly principled man known for his honesty, integrity and knack for justice and good governance. He is not one to be easily bullied.

“Due to his strong principles and high moral values, he has shown massive support for Governor Fubara. He believes in the governor’s philosophies and leadership model.

“We, therefore, commend the lawmaker for standing on the side of truth and the masses. He remains a bonafide member of the PDP and one of the party’s strongest pillars in Rivers.

“It is, however, unfortunate that those who have thrown away every iota of honour in them are now going after genuine patriots within the party. We call on all party men and women to expel ‘the bull in the China shop.’

“We also urge the general public to ignore his purported suspension as they are antics of frustrated politicians, particularly in Andoni and Rivers State who are discomforted by his towering political profile.”