NRM petitions DSS, IGP over alleged Plans for unauthorized convention

By Abubakar Yunusa

The National Management Committee (NMC) of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) has petitioned the Department of State Security Services (DSS) and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) over the alleged conduct of Mr. Isaac Chigozie Udeh, Chief Edozie Njoku, and their associates, accusing them of misleading the public with plans for an “Emergency Convention.”

In a statement issued on Monday, January 13, 2025, and signed by the Acting National Secretary, Barr. Obidike Okolo, the NMC expressed concern over the actions of Njoku and Udeh, particularly Njoku’s efforts to hijack the party following his removal as National Chairman of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) by the Supreme Court.

According to Okolo, Njoku, frustrated by his removal, is now attempting to exert control over the NRM, despite being suspended from the party.

“He has boasted of using his vast resources and connections to intimidate party leaders and push his own agenda at any cost, knowing full well that such actions could lead to a security threat and the breakdown of law and order,” Okolo said.

The NRM’s National Management Committee further clarified that the party has not agreed to hold any convention and that the NRM’s conventions occur every four years, with the next one scheduled for 2026.

Okolo emphasized that to hold a convention, a 21-day notice must be given to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has not occurred.

“To conduct a National Convention, a 21-day notice must be submitted to INEC, signed by the National Chairman and National Secretary, or by a two-thirds majority of the National Executive Council (NEC),” Okolo noted.

He further stressed that he, as National Secretary, had neither authored nor signed any notice for such a convention.

The NRM’s petition also referenced INEC’s warning against holding the purported convention, following which Udeh reportedly continued to push for an unauthorized gathering.

Okolo warned that Udeh and Njoku’s actions could potentially lead to violence and disruption within the party.

The NMC has called for a discreet investigation by law enforcement agencies to prevent any illegal activities and bring those involved in the attempted hijacking of the party to justice.

The party urged all members and the public to disregard any notice regarding the “Emergency Convention” and reassured that no such event has been approved by the party’s leadership.