JUSTICE Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a definitive order stopping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from holding its 2025 national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The ruling follows a suit filed by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, who argued that the party violated its constitution by denying him the opportunity to purchase a nomination form to contest for the position of national chairman.
Justice Lifu ruled that the PDP must allow Lamido to obtain the nomination form before proceeding with the convention.
The court also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from supervising or participating in any aspect of the convention until Lamido’s rights are restored.
Justice Lifu emphasised that the party is obligated to follow its own rules and ensure equal access for eligible members seeking to run for office.
Lamido had earlier filed an ex-parte motion on October 31 seeking an interim order to stop the convention.
While the judge initially refused to grant the interim request, he instructed the PDP and INEC to explain within 72 hours why Lamido’s demands should not be upheld.
The matter was later adjourned to November 6.
The planned convention has been at the centre of conflicting judicial orders.
Recall that on November 4, the Oyo State High Court directed the PDP and Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum to proceed with the convention, a ruling that drew criticism from allies of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who accused the presiding judge of misconduct.
Despite the legal turbulence, PDP governors insisted during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja this night that the convention must go on as scheduled.
Attendees included serving and former governors, National Working Committee members, National Assembly lawmakers, Board of Trustees members and state party chairmen.
However, former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called for the convention to be suspended altogether.
Addressing a PDP BoT reconciliation team, Saraki advised the party to establish a caretaker committee instead, arguing that doing so would stabilise the party and restore confidence among aspirants.
He urged the party to take this step within two days to pave the way for genuine reconciliation.