A group of discontented women from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) staged a protest at the party’s National Secretariat, alleging that the National Working Committee (NWC) has been demeaning and exploiting its members.
The demonstration was sparked by a scheduled meeting with the NWC, which was not attended by any committee members. Instead, junior staff were sent as representatives, leaving the women feeling humiliated and disrespected.
In a statement posted on X.com on Thursday, the PDP Women group voiced their frustration and disappointment with the NWC’s conduct.
They accused the committee of intimidation, exploitation, and actions against the people’s interests.
The protesting women declared that they would no longer engage with the NWC and were prepared to make significant sacrifices, even risking their lives, for liberation.
They called for an urgent National Convention, warning that the situation would deteriorate further without immediate action.
Similarly, a group of protesters gathered at the National Secretariat of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday, demanding the resignation or dismissal of the party’s National Woman Leader, Mrs. Amina Darasimi D. Bryhm. The protesters accused her of hindering the progress of women within the party.
Dr. Obianuju Ogoko, the leader of the protest, read a statement on behalf of the women, asserting that under Bryhm’s leadership, women have faced increased marginalization and mistreatment due to her poor administration.
The protesters alleged that over the past six months, Bryhm has engaged in intimidation, exclusion, harassment, and persecution of women, particularly those she views as opponents. They claimed her actions have frequently positioned the party against its female members.
Additionally, the women accused Bryhm of fostering division and targeting perceived adversaries for bullying and harassment. They also alleged that Bryhm has enlisted Ms. Adiela Nwosu to use police forces to harass innocent party members, citing a recent incident involving Ms. Ada Okwori, who was allegedly assaulted by the police for contesting the Woman Leader position against Bryhm.
The protesters emphasized that the ongoing police case involving Okwori has been poorly handled and raised concerns about broader issues, including sexual harassment and intimidation within the party, allegedly linked to police actions initiated by Ms. Nwosu.
Dr. Ogoko stated, “While we address the current case before the police, other revelations could have severe implications for the party and its leadership. We wish to highlight a related issue involving sexual harassment and intimidation, which is also connected to police involvement. There are additional developments that require attention.”
She further expressed that the actions taken by Ms. Nwosu under Bryhm’s directives raise suspicions of internal party contrivance, noting numerous allegations of sexual intimidation against party members.
“Never in the history of the PDP has the Women’s Wing been so divided and distressed. We, the women of the PDP, are deeply concerned, especially at a time when our party is at one of its lowest points,” Dr. Ogoko added.
The group warned that the evolving scandal could tarnish the party’s reputation and portray it as a hub of immoral behavior and misconduct.
The protesters issued several demands:
1. The immediate resignation or suspension of Mrs. Amina Darasimi D. Bryhm from the NWC for violating sections 58, 1 (b), (h), (j), and (k) of the PDP Constitution, citing repeated incidents of harassment and intimidation under her leadership.
2. An investigation into the actions of Ms. Adiela Nwosu, who allegedly carried out Bryhm’s directives in intimidating and harassing female party members.
3. The establishment of a Special Committee by the NWC to investigate Bryhm and take appropriate disciplinary actions as per Section 57 of the PDP Constitution.
The protesters stressed that these steps are necessary to uphold the PDP’s values and principles, ensuring prompt and fair resolution of internal issues while protecting all members from abuse and intimidation.
They pledged their support and loyalty to the PDP but vowed not to allow anyone, regardless of their position, to intimidate and harass them within the party.
In response, Mrs. Bryhm issued a statement denying the allegations and calling for unity among women to advance the party. She appealed to her fellow women to close ranks and ensure they take their rightful place within the party’s framework.
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