The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday ordered the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to suspend its national convention scheduled for Saturday and Sunday in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, the court also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from supervising, monitoring, or recognizing any convention conducted by the PDP without including former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, as a contender.
Justice Lifu held that evidence before the court established that Lamido was unjustly prevented from obtaining a nomination form to contest for the position of National Chairman of the PDP. The court ruled that the action violated both the party’s Constitution and its internal regulations.
The judge emphasized that the PDP has an obligation to provide equal opportunities for members to participate and aspire to leadership positions. He added that political parties must put in place deliberate measures to ensure fairness and inclusivity.
As part of the consequential orders, the court directed that the convention be put on hold to allow Lamido to obtain the nomination form, mobilize supporters, and carry out his campaign activities.
