PDP Suspends Ex-Gov’ship Candidate, Pastor Ize-Iyamu

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended former governorship candidate of the party, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

Naija News reports that the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) pastor was plotting to dump the PDP for the All Progressives Congress (APC) before this week runs out, having reached an agreement with the APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole.

Although Ize-Iyamu had remained a passive member of the party after he had issues with the chairman of the PDP in the state, Chief Dan Orbih which was disclosed by a source who prefers anonymity within the state chapter of the party.

Ize-Iyamu, who served as Secretary to the Edo State Government during the administration of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion, joined others to form the Grace Group, which metamorphosed into the defunct Action Congress.

In a statement the PDP Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare said Ize-Iyamu was suspended following his refusal to confirm or refute his rumoured defection to the ruling APC.

The statement reads: “In the last few days, the Edo State PDP has been inundated with calls and enquiries regarding the stories trending both in print and social media as it concerns one of our leaders, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

“The party leadership has patiently waited to hear or read his reaction to confirm or deny the stories, but to no avail.

“We boast of being a party of men and women of integrity and high moral standing. It is a brand we have earned and wish to maintain.

“As a result of the “uneasy quiet” from our dear pastor and the impression our silence will send to our teeming supporters and followers, Edo PDP is left with no option but to announce the EXCLUSION of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu from all PDP related activities with immediate effect, until he Acknowledges, Accepts and Addresses the issue of his decamping to APC.

“This decision has been taken without prejudice!”