The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its internal affairs into fresh disarray by officially cancelling its proposed national convention, which was scheduled to take place in Ibadan, Oyo State. The drastic measure was announced on Wednesday, directly citing a recent judgment from the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Mr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, addressed the press alongside National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, confirming the suspension. The decision was necessitated by the receipt of the Certified True Copy (CTC) of a recent judgment delivered by Justice Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025.
Mr. Mohammed noted that the party’s National Legal Adviser, Mr. Ajibade K.A. (SAN), had provided a legal interpretation of the judgment, which effectively barred the party from proceeding with the convention.
“In line with due process and our commitment to the rule of law, the PDP hereby suspends and cancels the proposed Ibadan National Convention pending the outcome of the appeal,” Mr. Mohammed declared. “Proceeding with the convention at this time would amount to a violation of the law.”
In a bid to overturn the judicial mandate, the PDP has promptly filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal to seek urgent clarification on the matter. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which was a party to the initial suit, has been formally notified of the party’s decision to suspend the convention.
The move underscores the opposition party’s recurring struggle with internal democracy and adherence to electoral guidelines, a recurring theme in Nigerian political litigation.
Furthermore, Mr. Mohammed dismissed reports of a contradictory ex-parte order purportedly issued by a High Court in Oyo State. He emphatically stressed that any such order cannot legally supersede an existing judgment delivered by a Federal High Court.
He maintained the PDP’s resolute position: the party would continue to act strictly in accordance with valid judicial authority and the fundamental provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The cancellation marks a significant setback in the party’s efforts to stabilise its leadership structure.
Would you like me to draft a high-impact Twitter thread summarising the core points of the cancellation and the ensuing legal battle?
