Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has delivered a decisive ruling halting the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from going ahead with its planned 2025 National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, which was scheduled for November 15 and 16.
The court issued the directive while ruling on a suit filed by former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido.
In his judgement, Justice Lifu restrained the PDP from conducting the convention until it fully complies with its Constitution and Guidelines governing such events. He specifically ordered that the gathering must remain suspended until Lamido is permitted to obtain a nomination form to contest for the office of the National Chairman.
The Judge also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from overseeing, monitoring or providing any form of support for the convention until Lamido is allowed to participate. He emphasized that the PDP is duty-bound to follow its own regulations, particularly those that ensure all eligible members are given a chance to pursue their political ambitions within the party.
Justice Lifu stressed that denying Lamido the opportunity to purchase a nomination form for the National Chairman position was improper and inconsistent with the party’s internal rules.
What You Should Know
Sule Lamido, a founding member of the PDP and former Jigawa governor, went to court after the party denied him the chance to buy a nomination form for the National Chairman seat.
The judge’s ruling underscores that political parties must respect their internal democratic processes and treat all aspirants fairly.
This decision places a temporary freeze on the PDP’s leadership transition plans, creating uncertainty around its national structure and forcing the party to revisit its internal procedures before moving forward with the convention.
