PDP National Convention Faces Another Legal Hurdle as Court Adjourns Hearing
The Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has once again postponed the hearing of a significant lawsuit concerning the upcoming National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Justice Ladiran Akintola announced the adjournment on Monday, November 10, 2025, pushing the proceedings to Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Legal Proceedings and Reasons for Delay
During the court session, Justice Akintola listened to arguments from lawyers representing both the claimant and defendants before deciding to grant more time for document preparation. The judge emphasized that all relevant documents must be properly filed and exchanged between the parties before substantive hearing could commence.
Justice Akintola explained that the adjournment was necessary to enable the court to consider all pending applications collectively, ensuring a smooth and efficient hearing process. This case involves Folahan Malomo Adelabi as the claimant against the PDP, its Acting National Chairman, and other respondents.
Background and Court Directives
The legal battle comes at a crucial time for Nigeria's main opposition party as it prepares for its National Convention. Last week, the court had issued an ex parte order permitting the PDP to continue with convention preparations while scheduling Monday, November 10, for the hearing of the Motion on Notice.
At the heart of the lawsuit is the claimant's request for an order restraining the defendants, including Acting National Chairman Umar Iliya Damagum and Adamawa State Governor Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umar Fintiri in his capacity as chairman of the National Convention Organising Committee, from taking any actions that might disrupt or frustrate the convention's conduct.
The court had previously directed the PDP leadership to strictly adhere to the convention guidelines, timetable, and schedule of activities already released, warning against any deviations that could undermine internal party democracy.
Political Implications and Next Steps
This ongoing legal tussle has significant implications for Nigeria's political landscape, particularly for the PDP's preparations for future elections. The repeated adjournments have created uncertainty around the party's convention plans, with political observers closely watching how the situation unfolds.
All parties are expected to return to court on November 12, 2025, when the hearing of the Motion on Notice is scheduled to proceed. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for the party's internal democracy and its readiness for upcoming electoral contests.
