The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reiterated its stance that the 26 lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) are no longer members of the state legislature.
This assertion was made by the PDP National Legal Adviser, Adeyemi Ajibade, SAN, while speaking to newsmen after Justice Donatus Okorowo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, adjourned the lawmakers’ suit until January 24, 2024.
Ajibade emphasized that the party stands firm on the constitutional provisions regarding defection, despite any interventions by notable figures like President Bola Tinubu.

“The PDP, as a party, upholds the constitution of the country.
It’s not a matter of agreements but a matter of what the constitution dictates,” Ajibade stated, highlighting the oath of office taken by both the governor and the president to uphold the constitution.
He also noted that the constitution is explicit on matters of defection, specifically referencing Section 109 (1g), and pointed out that the affected lawmakers have not denied their defection.
The PDP’s position underscores its commitment to constitutional provisions and its interpretation of the legal status of the lawmakers who have switched parties.
The adjournment of the lawmakers’ suit indicates that the legal battle over their status is ongoing and will be subject to further judicial review.
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