Chief Dan Orbih, recently re-elected as the national vice-chairman (South-South) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has defended the legitimacy of the zonal congress that secured his return. Despite opposition from some party leaders, Orbih maintains that the process adhered strictly to the PDP constitution. He dismissed claims that the absence of some governors invalidated the congress, stating that prior elections had been held under similar conditions.
Orbih also addressed allegations that his close ties with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have created tensions within the party. He insisted that Wike’s involvement in the current administration is a national service, not a defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He noted that before accepting the ministerial appointment, Wike sought approval from all levels of the PDP, none of which opposed his decision.
Discussing the broader state of the PDP, Orbih criticized the leadership for failing to address internal crises, particularly the situation in Rivers State. He lamented that instead of resolving pressing party issues, leaders were focusing on minor disputes.
On Edo State politics, Orbih accused former governor Godwin Obaseki of leaving the state chapter in disarray despite inheriting a united party. He revealed that PDP leaders had internally acknowledged Obaseki’s shortcomings but still supported his choice of candidate in the last governorship election, a decision Orbih believed weakened the party.
He concluded by stressing the need for the PDP to prioritize unity, mobilization, and proactive leadership to regain its political strength.
