I remain PDP National Secretary – Oyinlola

From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

Former Governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has warned the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) not to allow the opposition exploit the loophole that his being shut out of office presents as any document signed by anyone presently acting as National Secretary of the party remains invalid.

Oyinlola, who was addressing PDP loyalists during the rally of Osun Central Senatorial District of the party, held in Okuku, Osun State, said that until a superior court says otherwise, the verdict of the Court of Appeal that declared him the validly elected National Secretary of the party still stands.

The purpose of the rally was for the leadership of the party to educate the people on voters’ register as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) prepares for distribution of cards to the electorates and to also mobilise them on the need to work hard to ensure success at the governorship poll.

Debunking insinuations that he had left the PDP owing to the disciplinary action meted out on him by the leadership of the party, Oyinlola said, “Only the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) has the right to discipline a NEC member that I am. I have studied the constitution of our party and as a lawyer I know that the state chapter of the party or any other organ within the party lacks the prerogative to discipline me.”

He then gave an assurance that the situation would not deter his involvement in the home politics to ensure victory for the PDP, adding that he maintains a cordial relationship with President Goodluck Jonathan.

Oyinlola also expressed confidence in the ability of the new PDP Chairman, Adamu Muazu, to steer the party out of crisis and reposition it for a good outing in 2015.

Present at the rally were State PDP Chairman, Ganiyu Olaoluwa, party leaders in the state, among others.