By Yemi Oyeyemi, Abuja
The battle for the soul of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) took a dramatic turn on Thursday as Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, reaffirmed his earlier order halting any action towards the party’s 2025 National Convention.
In a firm warning from the bench, Justice Omotosho declared that the court’s directive to maintain the status quo stands — and any party daring to flout the order risks severe legal consequences.
“The court must not be overreached,” the judge warned, adding, “any steps taken in defiance will be met with consequential orders that could nullify such actions.”
The warning followed a complaint from PDP counsel, Chris Uche, SAN, who lamented that the interim order had effectively tied the hands of the party, urging the court to accelerate the case.
But Justice Omotosho wasn’t having any of it — he promised a swift resolution, pledging that judgment would be delivered before the end of October.
“I type my judgments myself,” he assured the courtroom, “so there will be no delays.”
PDP Lawyers Clash in Courtroom
Adding to the legal drama, the PDP had two Senior Advocates — Chris Uche, SAN, and Kamaldeen Ajibade, SAN — both appearing as legal representatives for the party. The judge, clearly unimpressed by the confusion, ordered both lawyers to file their papers so the court can determine who truly speaks for the PDP in this battle.
Convention on Hold: What’s at Stake?
At the heart of the legal showdown is a suit filed by three aggrieved PDP chieftains:
• Hon. Austin Nwachukwu (Imo PDP Chairman)
• Hon. Amah Abraham Nnanna (Abia PDP Chairman)
• Turnah Alabh George (PDP South-South Secretary)
The trio is challenging the legality of the party’s planned National Convention, slated for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, where new national officers are expected to emerge.
Defendants in the Crosshairs
The lawsuit targets nine defendants, including:
• The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
• The PDP
• Samuel Anyanwu (National Secretary)
• Umar Bature (National Organizing Secretary)
• PDP’s NWC and NEC
• Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum
• Ali Odefa
• Emmanuel Ogidi
What’s Next?
Justice Omotosho has now fixed Monday, October 20 for definite hearing of the originating summons — the day the legal fireworks truly begin. All court processes must be filed and exchanged no later than October 17.
As the PDP power tussle unfolds, all eyes are now on the Federal High Court, Abuja — where the fate of the party’s national leadership and its 2025 Convention may be decided.
