A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a restraining order against the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, preventing it from recognizing the outcome of the forthcoming 2025 National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The order was given by Justice James Omotosho on Friday while delivering judgment in a suit challenging the legality of the convention.
The court’s decision was based on the PDP’s failure to comply with relevant laws and conditions for conducting such conventions. Evidence presented by INEC and some respondents showed that congresses were not held in some states, breaching the law. Additionally, the court found that the PDP’s National Chairman signed notices and correspondence without the National Secretary, violating the law and rendering such notices and correspondence null and void.
The PDP was also found to have failed to issue the mandatory 21-day notice of meetings and congresses, which would have allowed INEC to carry out its duty of monitoring such meetings and congresses. Justice Omotosho stated that the PDP’s non-compliance with the law has put the planned convention in jeopardy. He advised the PDP to take necessary steps to comply with the law before proceeding with the election.
As a result, INEC has been restrained from receiving, publishing, or recognizing the outcome of the convention scheduled to take place in Ibadan until the law has been complied with. This development may have significant implications for the PDP’s plans and the overall electoral process in Nigeria. The court’s ruling highlights the importance of adherence to electoral laws and regulations to ensure the integrity and legitimacy of the electoral process.
The PDP’s National Convention is a crucial event in the party’s calendar, as it is expected to shape the party’s direction and leadership ahead of future elections. The court’s decision may lead to a postponement or reorganization of the convention to ensure compliance with the law. The electoral commission, INEC, will likely play a crucial role in monitoring the situation and ensuring that the PDP complies with the necessary regulations before recognizing the outcome of the convention.