The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of the Young Progressives Party has expelled its state secretary, Kelvin Umoh, over allegations of gross misconduct, blackmail and other actions considered inimical to the peace, unity and integrity of the party.
The party also announced the appointment of Mr. Moses Antigha, as the acting secretary of the party in the state.
This was contained in a communique issued at the end of a general meeting of the party held in Uyo the state capital on Sunday.
The meeting presided over by the Acting State Chairman, Elder Wisdom Udoka, accused Umoh of allegedly convening secret meetings with selected members to perpetrate violence during general meetings, hindering the party’s success and ability to execute its plans.
The communiqué signed by Udoka and 125 executive members of the party stated that the expulsion followed due consultation with relevant party organs in line with the provisions of the party constitution, which empowers the Executive Committee to take disciplinary action against members whose conduct undermines the party’s values and objectives.
It was stated that the meeting expressed disappointment with Umoh for publicly contradicting official party decisions through unauthorised media appearances, thereby allegedly bringing the party into disrepute
It also frowned at his refusal to sign essential financial documents, including a cheque for the remittance of 10% of funds generated from nomination form sales after the 2024 Local Government Elections, until compelled.
These actions, according to the communique violate the Party Rules and Ethics, Section 36.7 of the YPP Constitution, which prohibits unauthorised public disclosure of internal party matters; formation of parallel party structures; and disobedience to lawful directives; conduct capable of causing internal disaffection.
“In light of these developments, the Young Progressives Party has appointed the Deputy State Secretary, Mr. Moses Antigha, as the Acting Secretary of the YPP Akwa Ibom State Chapter and directed Ambassador Kelvin Umoh to return all party documents and property in his possession to the YPP State Secretariat within 24 hours.” the communique partly read.
It reaffirmed commitment to the leadership of Udoka as the Acting Chairman of the party in upholding internal discipline, transparency, and unity, urging members to remain focused and committed to the party’s rebirth agenda and democratic mission.
In his address, Udoka described the gathering as a defining moment in the party’s history, a moment of rebirth, a renewed sense of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the core ideals of social democracy, inclusive governance, and accountability, which form the foundational pillars of the YPP.
