The Jigawa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the suspension of former governor of the state, Alhaji Sule Lamido, from the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT).

The PDP BoT on Friday announced Lamido’s suspension over alleged anti-party activities and what it described as inflammatory statements made during recent internal crises within the party.

Reacting to the development, the Jigawa PDP described the action as unjust, premature and capable of deepening divisions within the party ahead of future elections.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Dutse and signed by the state chairman of the party, Babandi Gumel, the chapter said the decision had generated widespread concern and debate among party members in the state.

Gumel said the suspension, reportedly linked to claims that Lamido attended meetings capable of undermining party unity, amounted to an affront to justice, internal democracy and ongoing reconciliation efforts within the PDP.

“The pursuit of one’s legal and constitutional rights within the party cannot be construed as an act of disunity,” he said.

He explained that Lamido approached the court after he was denied the opportunity to obtain a nomination form to contest the PDP national chairmanship. According to him, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in Lamido’s favour, restraining the party from proceeding with its national convention until his right to contest was determined.

Gumel described the BoT’s action as prejudicial and disrespectful to the judicial process, stressing that Lamido is a founding member of the PDP who has remained loyal to the party and has never defected to another political platform.

“Punishing such loyalty sends a chilling message to all dedicated members,” he said.

The Jigawa PDP chairman further argued that the suspension undermines party unity, noting that the strength of the PDP lies in inclusion rather than exclusion. He also stated that the party’s constitution does not permit the suspension of a life member of the BoT such as Lamido.

“The party demands that the BoT immediately and unconditionally withdraw the suspension imposed on Lamido. We urge the BoT to retrace its steps, align its actions with its calls for reconciliation, and apologise to this elder statesman,” Gumel said.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Jigawa PDP to a united, democratic party that respects the rule of law and the dignity of its members.