CUPP accuses PDP leaders of plotting against Rivers Governor Fubara

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has accused the acting National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Iliya Damagum, and the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, of conspiring against Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

During a press briefing on Saturday, CUPP lawmakers alleged that Damagum and Anyanwu are covertly working to sabotage Fubara’s administration.

They claim the duo is involved in derailing a legal battle against defected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who recently switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking on behalf of the opposition coalition, House of Representatives member Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere described this as a “calculated betrayal.” He accused the PDP leaders of undermining the party’s efforts to prevent APC defectors from challenging the PDP-led government in Rivers State.

Ugochinyere warned that this alleged collusion could enable pro-Wike APC lawmakers to regain influence and potentially remove Governor Fubara from office.

The legal battle, marked PHC/2177/CS/2024, focuses on the defection of 27 PDP lawmakers to the APC in December 2023.

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He highlighted that the Rivers State High Court had previously issued a restraining order against the defected lawmakers, but former Governor Nyesom Wike allegedly retained legal representation to appeal the order without party approval—a move opposed by the PDP’s National Legal Adviser, Mr. Ajibade, SAN, who attempted to withdraw the appeal.

The CUPP accused Damagum and Anyanwu of undermining the PDP’s internal unity and aiding the APC’s political ambitions, alleging further interference in legal matters in both Abuja and Port Harcourt aimed at weakening the PDP.

Ugochinyere called for immediate action, including reaffirming the authority of the National Legal Adviser, legally restraining the National Chairman and Secretary from further interference, and convening a disciplinary committee to investigate their actions.

“The PDP must stand united in the face of this betrayal,” Ugochinyere urged, calling on all party members and Nigerians to join in defending the party’s integrity and ensuring justice prevails.

The opposition coalition vowed to continue defending the PDP against internal and external threats, promising to keep the public informed of further developments.