PDP logo and court gavel
The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled October 31 to deliver its ruling on a lawsuit aiming to halt the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) upcoming national convention.
Justice James Omotosho set the judgment date after listening to final arguments from lawyers representing both the plaintiffs and the defendants, who formally adopted their legal submissions during Tuesday’s proceedings.
The legal battle, brought before the court by three key PDP stakeholders—Austin Nwachukwu (Imo State Chairman), Amah Nnanna (Abia State Chairman), and Turnah Alabh George (South-South Secretary)—challenges the legitimacy of the planned convention slated for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Joined as defendants in the case are the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the PDP itself, and several top party officials including National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, as well as members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and National Executive Committee (NEC). Also listed are acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, Ali Odefa, and Emmanuel Ogidi.
At the heart of the lawsuit is the claim that no valid congresses were held in 14 states prior to the PDP’s NEC and NWC issuing notices for the national convention—an alleged breach of both party guidelines and national electoral law.
During the hearing, Justice Omotosho emphasized that his earlier directive ordering all parties to maintain the status quo remains in force and must be strictly observed.
Representing the plaintiffs, senior advocate Joseph Daudu urged the court to treat the case as a constitutional matter, not merely a party dispute.
“This is not an internal affair of a political party. It is about enforcing the provisions of the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act, 2022, and the PDP Constitution,” Daudu argued. He further pointed out that “the Nigerian Constitution mandates INEC to supervise congresses before they can be considered valid.”
In contrast, Paul Erokoro, SAN—appearing for the PDP National Chairman—contended that the court lacks jurisdiction, insisting that “conventions and congresses are internal matters for the party.” His stance was supported by Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, who represented the NWC and NEC.
With the stakes high and the date looming, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court on October 31, when Justice Omotosho is expected to decide whether the PDP can proceed with its convention or hit pause amid deepening internal discord.
NAN
