Jigawa PDP Demands Reversal of Lamido’s Suspension from BoT

James Adamu

The Jigawa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has formally demanded the immediate and unconditional reversal of former Governor Sule Lamido’s suspension from the party’s Board of Trustees.

The PDP BoT announced Lamido’s suspension on Friday, citing allegations of anti-party activities and inflammatory statements. However, the decision has been met with fierce resistance from the party’s leadership in his home state.

In a strong-worded statement issued on Saturday and signed by the State Chairman, Babandi Gumel, the Jigawa PDP described the suspension as “unjust,” “counterproductive,” and “a direct affront to justice and internal democracy.”

Gumel stated that the action undermines recent reconciliation efforts within the party and violates its own constitutional principles. He defended Lamido’s actions, explaining that the former governor had merely sought legal redress after being denied a nomination form to contest the party’s national chairmanship—a case in which the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in his favour.

“The pursuit of one’s legal and constitutional rights within the party cannot be construed as an act of disunity,” Gumel argued.

He emphasised Lamido’s status as a steadfast founding member of the PDP who has never defected, warning that “punishing such loyalty sends a chilling message to all dedicated members.”

The Jigawa chairman also raised a constitutional objection, noting that the party’s rules do not permit the suspension of a life member of the BoT like Lamido. He described the suspension as premature and disrespectful to the ongoing judicial process.

The chapter’s rebuke is seen as a significant escalation of the party’s internal crisis, threatening to deepen divisions ahead of crucial upcoming elections. The Jigawa PDP has urged the BoT to retrace its steps, align with its own calls for unity, and issue an apology to the elder statesman.

“We remain committed to a strong, united, and democratic party that respects the rule of law and the dignity of its members,” the statement concluded.