A Federal High Court in Abuja has, for the second time, stopped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from holding its planned national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Justice Peter Lifu issued the order on Tuesday following an application filed by former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, who accused the party of shutting him out of the process.
The judge also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from supervising, monitoring or recognising the outcome of any convention organised by the party until the case is heard and determined.
“Due process of law must be strictly followed. To do otherwise will endanger democracy itself,”
Justice Lifu said in his ruling.
Lamido alleged that the PDP denied him the opportunity to purchase the nomination form for the national chairmanship position, despite being eligible to contest. He further argued that the party failed to publish the convention timetable as required by law.
Justice Lifu agreed that Lamido’s rights could be jeopardised if the convention proceeded, noting:
“The balance of convenience tilts in favour of the applicant, who stands to suffer more if unlawfully excluded.”
This is the second court order halting the same convention. A previous ruling in October directed the PDP to comply with its constitution and the Electoral Act before proceeding.
With Tuesday’s ruling, the PDP is legally barred from holding the Ibadan convention “on November 15 and 16, or any other date, and in any location,” the court ordered.
The case has been adjourned for further hearing.
