From Moshood Karim
The Coalition of Democratic Leaders (CDL) has launched a sharp critique of Chief Dan Osi Orbih, alleging that the former National Vice Chairman (South-South) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has unlawfully interfered in the party’s operations in Edo and Bayelsa States. The group is calling for immediate disciplinary measures against Orbih, who they claim has violated the PDP’s constitution by attempting to impose a caretaker committee in both States.
In a statement made available to Uptown Press Nigeria on Tuesday evening, Dr. Paschal Eje, National Team Lead of the CDL, described Orbih’s actions as “illegal, null and void,” stressing that such interference poses a serious threat to party unity and undermines the integrity of the PDP’s internal governance structures.
“Chief Orbih’s attempts to manipulate leadership in Edo and Bayelsa are not only unconstitutional, but a blatant overreach of authority. This behaviour must be condemned by all democratic stakeholders and loyal PDP members,” Dr. Eje stated.
The CDL pointed out that the PDP Constitution clearly grants the National Working Committee (NWC) the exclusive authority to appoint or dissolve state leadership structures, not any former party official, no matter their previous role. The group warned that if Orbih’s actions are allowed to stand, it could set a dangerous precedent and destabilise the party’s internal processes.
“It is wholly unacceptable for a former party officer, with no legitimate mandate, to impose leadership decisions on states where the NWC has already made determinations,” the statement read.
In response to Orbih’s alleged actions, the CDL has called on the NWC and the National Executive Committee (NEC) to:
Reject Orbih’s unconstitutional interference, reaffirm the legitimate leadership structures in both Edo and Bayelsa, initiate disciplinary proceedings against Orbih to safeguard the party’s constitutional order
The CDL further warned that failure to act decisively would risk emboldening other individuals to make similar unwarranted interventions in the future.
While condemning Orbih’s behaviour, the CDL praised the commitment of PDP members in Edo and Bayelsa, commending their resilience and dedication to upholding the party’s ideals. The group urged leaders in both states to focus on strengthening grassroots engagement, fostering unity, and ensuring inclusive leadership.
“The PDP cannot allow personal ambitions or factionalism to derail the party’s collective objectives. Now is the time for discipline, focus, and unity,” Dr. Eje concluded.
Reaffirming their loyalty to the party’s principles, the CDL expressed their commitment to defending the PDP constitution and promoting legitimate leadership. The group emphasised that no individual, past or present, is above the law within the party, urging national leaders to act swiftly to preserve the integrity of the PDP.
