In a significant legal development that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria's political landscape, the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a definitive order preventing the Peoples Democratic Party from conducting its highly anticipated 2025 national convention in Ibadan.
Court Delivers Final Judgment
Justice Peter Odo Lifu delivered the decisive ruling on Friday afternoon, effectively putting a stop to the PDP's plans to hold its convention between November 15 and 16, 2025. The convention was intended to elect new national officers for the opposition party, but the court's intervention has created a major obstacle for the party's internal democratic processes.
Lamido's Legal Challenge Succeeds
The legal action was initiated by former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido, who argued that the PDP had denied him the opportunity to participate in the election for the office of National Chairman. Justice Lifu agreed with Lamido's position, stating that the party had acted improperly by preventing the former governor from purchasing a nomination form for the top position.
The judge emphasized that political parties must strictly adhere to their own constitutions and guidelines, and that eligible members should be given fair opportunities to realize their political aspirations within the party structure.
INEC Barred from Convention Supervision
In a move that reinforces the court's determination, Justice Lifu also prohibited the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from performing any supervisory, monitoring, or supportive role in the planned Ibadan convention. This prohibition remains in effect until Sule Lamido is permitted to fully participate in the convention process by purchasing the necessary nomination forms.
The court's ruling represents a significant victory for internal party democracy and sets an important precedent for how political parties in Nigeria must conduct their internal affairs according to established rules and regulations.
