PDP Announces Next Steps After Court Halts National Convention

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced its disappointment regarding the court’s decision to suspend its upcoming National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The PDP said the ruling by Justice Kolawole Omotosho is an assault on Nigeria’s democratic process.

It added that the court order does not stop the party from continuing the plans and processes towards hosting a successful convention.

Justice Omotosho of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, stopped the PDP from going ahead with its planned national convention scheduled for November 15-16.

The court ordered the PDP to put its plans for the convention on hold, citing a breach of rules.

Justice Omotosho directed the PDP to go back and put its house in order, and also to send the statutory 21-day notice before proceeding with the proposed convention.

However, in a swift reaction through a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP vowed to appeal the court order.

It added that the ruling contravenes the existing Supreme Court order, which affirms the supremacy of a political party in the management of its internal affairs.

The full PDP statement reads, “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is appalled by the judgement of the Federal High Court Abuja, presided over by Honorable Justice Kolawole Omotosho today, describing it as an assault on Nigeria’s democratic process.

“However, the PDP states that the judgment of the court does not vitiate its ability to proceed with the processes and activities towards the National Convention to elect new National Officers to pilot the affairs of the Party for the next four years.

“Our Party notes the recent judgement of the Supreme Court, which affirms the supremacy of a political party in the management of its internal affairs.

“The PDP therefore charges its members, Chapters, and Organs to remain steadfast and focused on preparations towards the holding of the National Convention of our Party.

“Nevertheless, the PDP, as the leading opposition Party in Nigeria, committed to the Rule of Law, has accordingly directed its lawyers to take immediate action to appeal this judgment in our unwavering determination to uphold, defend, and promote multi-party democracy in our country.”