Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected an application filed by former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, seeking to stop the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from conducting its planned national convention.
Lamido, represented by his counsel, Jeph Njikonye, had filed an ex parte motion requesting the court to issue an interim order preventing the PDP from proceeding with the convention until his motion on notice was heard and determined. However, in his ruling, Justice Lifu declined to grant the interim relief and instead directed both the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) — listed as the first and second defendants respectively — to appear before the court to explain why the orders sought by Lamido should not be granted.
In his motion, Lamido asked for two key orders: one restraining the PDP from holding its national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, or any other location; and another barring INEC from monitoring, supervising, or recognising the convention pending the court’s determination of his substantive motion.
Lamido’s counsel argued that once a matter is before a court, all parties are required to maintain the status quo to prevent rendering the eventual judgment meaningless. He further maintained that the court has inherent powers to preserve the subject matter of litigation and ensure justice is not compromised.
The former governor contended that allowing the PDP to proceed with the convention would breach the party’s constitution and effectively deny him the chance to vie for the position of national chairman, a role he said he is fully qualified to contest for.
According to his affidavit, “the plaintiff/applicant has established a prima facie legal interest in the subject matter of litigation entitling him to the grant of the interim preservative relief sought.” He added that if the PDP is not restrained and the convention goes ahead, the court’s power to grant equitable relief would be rendered ineffective.
Lamido also insisted that the case raises substantial legal questions and that the balance of convenience supports the need for an interim injunction to preserve his rights and the integrity of the process.
After hearing from Lamido’s counsel in his chambers, Justice Lifu ruled that it would be improper to make any restraining order without first hearing from the defendants. The judge therefore gave the PDP and INEC 72 hours from the date of service to respond to the application.
The matter, which was the only case listed for hearing on Friday, was adjourned until November 6 for continuation.
What You Should Know
Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido sought an interim court order to stop the PDP from holding its national convention in November, arguing it would violate party rules and deny him a fair chance to contest for national chairman.
However, Justice Peter Lifu refused the request, directing both the PDP and INEC to appear within 72 hours to defend their positions before any decision is made.
