The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Steve Oruruo, has expressed confidence that the party will overcome its current internal crisis, dismissing concerns about possible deregistration.
Speaking to journalists in Enugu during a training session for ward and local government agents overseeing the e-registration exercise, Oruruo urged party members to intensify efforts in boosting membership enrollment. He described the exercise as a vital step toward strengthening the party’s structure ahead of future elections.
He also expressed optimism about reconciliation within the party but maintained that legal options remain open if necessary.
“We want compromise, consensus, peace, and dialogue. But whether we reach a settlement or not, we will continue to the Supreme Court. We cannot allow our party to be destroyed,” he stated.
On whether the crisis would be resolved before the deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Oruruo acknowledged existing concerns but remained confident in the party’s resilience.
“PDP will survive, but it must quickly get its act together to qualify to field candidates in elections. That is why we are mobilizing more members,” he said.
He added that despite internal challenges, the PDP in Enugu State remains stable and focused on expanding its base through the ongoing e-registration process.
Oruruo stressed that the success of the exercise must be reflected in actual membership figures rather than mere rhetoric.
“That must translate into real membership. It’s not just about talk; our people must be properly captured,” he said.
He noted that the process requires deliberate sensitization, especially in rural communities where many people may not be familiar with digital registration systems.
“Because of the rigorous procedures, we need to educate people so that those in rural areas are not left out,” he explained.
The PDP chairman urged party officials at all levels to act swiftly in driving the registration process, emphasizing the need for an effective framework to reach grassroots members.
While acknowledging progress so far, he called for increased speed and wider coverage.
“We have made progress, but we need more momentum. By the end of next week, we should be able to assess how far we have gone,” he added.
Reacting to reports of parallel PDP congresses in the state, Oruruo dismissed such claims as illegitimate and lacking legal backing.
“You cannot build something on nothing and expect it to stand. The Court of Appeal judgment clearly suspended those involved, including Sam Anyanwu and others. Any actions taken outside that ruling are null,” he said.
Reaffirming his position as state chairman, Oruruo cited a court judgment backing his leadership.
“At the state level, I remain fully in charge based on the court’s pronouncement. Until that ruling is overturned, no one else can claim to be chairman. Any such claim is baseless,” he stated.