TDThe National Rescue Movement (NRM) has issued a strongly worded press release condemning what it described as a “coordinated campaign of calumny, distortion and sponsored agitation” aimed at destabilising the party’s leadership.
The statement, signed by Chinedu Anselem Nebeife, National Publicity Secretary, reaffirmed the legitimacy of the Chief Edozie Njoku‑led National Working Committee (NWC).
The party vowed to resist attempts to undermine the party’s institutional stability.
Key Highlights
- Court recognition: On March 5, 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a binding judgment recognising Chief Edozie Njoku as the lawful leader of the NRM’s NWC.
The party stressed that this judgment remains extant, enforceable, and has not been vacated or set aside.
- INEC’s past refusal: The NRM accused the immediate past leadership of INEC under Prof. Mahmood Yakubu of deliberately refusing to implement the judgment.
It cited the imposition of a gubernatorial candidate during the last Anambra Governorship Election as evidence of institutional obstruction.
- Internal sabotage: The party alleged that certain individuals within its ranks have become “willing collaborators” in undermining lawful leadership, trading dignity and stability for financial inducements and external patronage.
Party’s Position
- On detractors: The NRM insisted that the current agitation is not a mere internal disagreement but a calculated attempt to frustrate lawful leadership at a critical moment in the party’s evolution.
- On INEC: The party expressed confidence in the present INEC leadership, noting its commitment to due process and constitutional compliance.
It declared that the era of selective obedience to court orders is over.
- On discipline: It warned that constitutional mechanisms will be activated against members found guilty of anti‑party activities.
- It also stressed that discipline is “preservation, not vengeance.”
Statement from Leadership
Nebeife, the National Publicity Secretary, declared: “The law is not negotiable and recognition is not a favour. More so, mandate is not merchandise.”
He urged loyal members nationwide to remain calm and resolute, assuring them that the party remains intact and its leadership lawful.
Nebeife emphasised that the NRM was built on conviction, legality, and strategic patience, not impulse.
He added that no amount of “sponsored agitation” will derail what law and legitimacy have already settled.
Broader Implications
- Political stability:
The statement underscores ongoing tensions within opposition parties over recognition, legitimacy, and internal cohesion.
- Judicial compliance:
It highlights the importance of respecting court judgments in Nigeria’s democratic process, warning against selective enforcement that undermines public confidence.
- Future outlook:
The NRM insists it stands at a decisive moment in its institutional evolution and will not allow detractors to derail its progress.
The party pledged to defend its mandate and protect its movement, framing its struggle as one for justice and constitutional order.
This declaration positions the NRM as resolute in its fight against internal sabotage and external interference, while reaffirming its confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system and electoral institutions.
The party’s message is clear: its leadership is lawful, its mandate intact, and its future secure.
