The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a judgment that bars the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from holding its national convention until it complies with statutory requirements. Justice James Omotosho ruled in favor of three aggrieved party members and also prohibited the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing the outcome of any convention that does not meet those requirements.
The decision was welcomed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who described it as a step against impunity. Speaking to PDP stakeholders from twelve states, including the FCT, Wike expressed mixed emotions. He called the ruling a positive development in the fight against impunity but also lamented the party’s current condition, calling it a “sad day.” He emphasized the importance of leadership and urged party leaders to acknowledge the sacrifices of stakeholders, encouraging them to stand by the truth and not relent in their efforts.
Wike noted that the party has never been in such disarray and attributed the present crisis to arrogance and disregard for the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act. The judgment marks a significant development in the ongoing internal conflicts within the PDP. Although the party had planned to hold its national convention in 2025, the court’s ruling has placed the event on hold, and INEC has been instructed not to accept or recognize the outcome of any non‑compliant convention.
The PDP has been grappling with internal crises, with various factions and stakeholders disagreeing over leadership and direction. The court’s judgment is likely to intensify these tensions, as different groups may interpret the ruling in divergent ways. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the PDP will respond to the judgment and proceed with its plans for the 2025 national convention.
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