A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a second restraining order against the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from holding its 2025 National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, scheduled for November 15 and 16. The court also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from supervising, monitoring, or recognizing the outcome of the convention.
The order was given by Justice Peter Odo Lifu in response to an application by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, a foundation member of the PDP. Lamido had complained that he was denied the opportunity to purchase a chairmanship nomination form, thereby excluding him from participating in the convention.
According to the court, the PDP failed to comply with relevant laws and conditions for conducting the convention, including publishing the timetable for the attention of its members. The judge held that the balance of convenience favored Lamido, as he would suffer more if allowed to be unlawfully excluded from the convention. To mitigate potential losses, Lamido undertook to pay damages to the PDP if his suit was found to be frivolous.
Justice Lifu emphasized the importance of following due process and upholding the rule of law, citing Section 6 of the 1999 Constitution. He warned that anarchy would ensue if the court failed to perform its constitutionally assigned functions. This is the second time a Federal High Court has issued such an order, as another judge, James Omotosho, had previously stopped INEC from supervising or recognizing the outcome of the convention due to non-compliance with the law.
The PDP had failed to issue the mandatory 21-day notice of meetings and congresses, which is required to enable INEC to monitor such events. The court’s decision has significant implications for the party’s plans to elect new national officers. The PDP must now comply with the relevant laws and regulations before proceeding with the convention. The development is being closely watched, as it may impact the party’s preparations for the upcoming elections.