In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, Justice Peter Odo Lifu also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from supervising, monitoring, or recognizing the outcome of the convention where national officers were expected to be elected.
The order followed an application filed by former Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, who challenged the legality of the planned convention.
Justice Lifu ruled that Lamido had provided sufficient evidence showing that the PDP failed to publish the timetable for the convention as required by law, effectively excluding some members from participating in the process.
He held that “the balance of convenience tilts in favour of the applicant,” noting that Lamido would suffer irreparable harm if unlawfully excluded from the exercise. The court emphasized that adherence to due process remains critical to preserving Nigeria’s democracy.
“The court must not abdicate its role of ensuring justice without fear or favour. Anarchy would reign if courts abandon their constitutional duties,” Justice Lifu stated.
He therefore ordered the PDP to suspend preparations for the convention pending the determination of the substantive suit. The judge further restrained INEC from supervising or recognizing any convention conducted in violation of due process.
It will be recalled that on October 31, Justice James Omotosho of the same court had issued a similar order against the PDP, citing the party’s failure to issue the mandatory 21-day notice to INEC before holding congresses or national meetings.
Justice Omotosho held that the party’s failure to comply with legal requirements rendered the planned convention invalid, advising the PDP to correct the lapses before proceeding with its internal elections.
Both rulings effectively place the PDP’s 2025 National Convention on hold until the party meets all constitutional and procedural requirements.
