Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a final order stopping the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from proceeding with its 2025 National Convention scheduled to take place in Ibadan, Oyo State. The convention, previously slated for November 15 and 16, was meant to elect new national officers of the party.
The ruling followed a suit filed by former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, who accused the party of violating its own constitution and guidelines by denying him the opportunity to purchase a nomination form for the position of National Chairman.
In his judgement, Justice Lifu held that the PDP must strictly comply with its internal rules and ensure that all eligible members, including Lamido, are allowed to actualize their political aspirations. He ordered that the convention be put on hold until Lamido is given access to purchase the nomination form.
The court further restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from supervising, monitoring or providing any support for the convention until Lamido’s participation is guaranteed.
Justice Lifu emphasized that the PDP acted wrongly by preventing the former governor from obtaining the form, stressing that internal democracy must be upheld within political parties.
