In a dramatic turn of events, a Nigerian court has thrown the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into further turmoil by ordering the party to hold its national convention despite ongoing internal conflicts. But here's where it gets controversial: this ruling directly contradicts a previous federal court decision that halted the convention due to procedural irregularities. What does this mean for the PDP's future? Let’s dive into the details.
A high court in Oyo State has mandated the PDP and its national chairman, Umar Damagum, to proceed with the party’s national convention on November 15 in Ibadan, the state capital. This order was issued by Justice A.L. Akintola on Monday, following an ex parte application filed by Folahan Malomo Adelabi. The application sought to prevent the PDP leadership from disrupting the planned convention, which is scheduled to elect new national officers.
And this is the part most people miss: The court’s decision comes just days after a federal high court in Abuja issued a contrasting ruling, stopping the PDP from holding the same convention. The Abuja court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, argued that the PDP had failed to conduct valid state congresses—a prerequisite under the 1999 Constitution, INEC guidelines, and the party’s own constitution. This clash of judicial opinions raises questions about the consistency of Nigeria’s legal system and the PDP’s internal governance.
Adelabi’s application listed the PDP, Damagum, Governor Umar Fintiri of Adamawa State, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as defendants. He requested an interim injunction to prevent the defendants from obstructing the convention and urged the court to compel the PDP leadership to adhere to the established guidelines and timetable. The judge granted all the prayers, stating that the application had merit.
Here’s where it gets even more complicated: The PDP is currently embroiled in a leadership crisis that began after the 2023 elections. Factions within the party have emerged, with one group led by suspended National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu recently removing Damagum as chairman. This faction also suspended several key officials, including the party’s spokesperson and deputy national vice-chairman. In response, the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) appointed Mohammed Abdulrahman as acting national chairman, further deepening the rift.
The plaintiffs in the Abuja case—Austine Nwachukwu, Amah Abraham Nnanna, and Turnah George—are believed to be allies of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Their lawsuit highlights the growing divisions within the PDP, which could have long-term implications for the party’s unity and electoral prospects.
Now, the big question remains: Will the PDP comply with the Oyo court’s order, or will the Abuja ruling take precedence? This legal tug-of-war not only exposes the fragility of the PDP’s leadership but also raises broader concerns about the role of the judiciary in political disputes. What do you think? Should courts intervene in party affairs, or is this a matter best left to internal resolution? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
