Court affirms Ayu’s suspension as PDP chairman

Tamarauemi Ebimini

A High Court in Makurdi, Benue State has affirmed the suspension of Senator Iyorchia Ayu from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and his eventual removal as the party’s National Chairman. Justice Maurice Ikpambese, who gave the judgement today, said that Ayu did not contest that he did not pay his dues up to date. The judge said Ayu’s membership of the PDP elapsed with his failure to pay his membership and subscription dues.

It should be recalled that on March 27, 2023, Justice W. I Kpochi, issued an interim injunction restraining Ayu from parading himself as the national chair of the PDP. The judge issued the order following an ex parte application by a member of the party in Benue State, Terhide Utaan. Delivering judgement on the suit today, Justice Ikpambese, who is also the Chief Judge of Benue State said, “the first defendant’s (Ayu) membership of the second defendant (PDP) elapsed with his failure to pay his membership and subscription fee.

“The first defendant (Ayu) did not contest his suspension by the Igyorov Ward Executive, neither did he initiate any suit challenging his suspension. He has left the court with no option than to believe that he has consented to his suspension. The Plaintiff has therefore proven his case. All the questions for determination have been resolved in favour of the plaintiff. He is entitled to all the reliefs sought. I so order.”