Lagos PDP Disowns Deji Doherty, Rejects Claims of Unauthorized Candidate Selection
The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly dismissed allegations made by former member Mr. Deji Doherty regarding unauthorized candidate selection within the party. In a firm statement, the party described Doherty's comments as misleading and baseless, asserting that he no longer holds any recognized membership status within the PDP.
Party Denounces Doherty's Authority and Motives
According to the statement signed by the party's Publicity Secretary, Prince Dr. Christopher Odianarewo, Doherty has no authority to speak on the PDP's internal affairs. The party accused him of attempting to mislead Nigerians by portraying himself as a representative of the PDP, suggesting his remarks were primarily aimed at regaining political relevance after losing standing within the party.
The Lagos PDP further criticized Doherty's moral standing to comment on party processes, citing what it described as his history of political opportunism and controversies. Specifically, the party alleged that Doherty had previously engaged in actions detrimental to the PDP's interests during the 2023 general elections in Lagos State, undermining the party's electoral performance through questionable activities.
Reaffirmation of Legitimate Leadership Structures
In response to the controversy, the Lagos PDP reaffirmed its current leadership hierarchy. The party emphasized that the Dr. Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee remains the recognized national leadership of the PDP, while Barr. Dr. Amos Fawole continues to provide legitimate leadership for the party in Lagos State.
The party pointed to recent evidence of its grassroots support, highlighting an interactive session between the Lagos PDP leadership and governorship aspirant Prince Adelaja Adeoye. This event, according to the statement, demonstrated the strong connection between the party's leadership and its base members, contradicting Doherty's claims of internal dysfunction.
Historical Context and Pattern of Behavior
The PDP statement placed Doherty's allegations within a broader context of what it called his long-standing reputation for transactional politics. The party referenced his documented focus on financial benefits, which it claimed has repeatedly placed him at the center of credibility crises within political circles.
Notably, the statement mentioned Doherty's recent physical altercation with former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose over mobilization funds linked to the controversial Nyesom Wike-aligned convention. According to the PDP, this incident exemplifies a pattern of behavior that raises serious questions about Doherty's moral authority to speak on matters of party integrity and internal processes.
Judicial Resolution and Call for Disregard
The Lagos PDP noted that leadership disputes within the party are currently before the Supreme Court, expressing confidence that due process would prevail through judicial clarification. The party emphasized its commitment to the rule of law and institutional processes rather than responding to what it characterized as opportunistic criticism from former members.
Finally, the party urged all PDP members and the general public to completely disregard Doherty's statements, maintaining that he does not represent the PDP in any official capacity. The statement concluded by reinforcing the party's unity under its current leadership structures and its focus on legitimate democratic processes rather than distractions from former members seeking relevance.
