The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has insisted it will proceed with its planned elective National Convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, despite a court order halting the event.
Earlier reported by Politics Nigeria, a Federal High Court in Abuja restrained the party from conducting the convention over an alleged breach of its own rules. Justice James Omotosho also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from receiving, publishing, or recognising any outcome from the proposed exercise until the party complies with all statutory requirements.
However, in a statement issued on Friday night, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said preparations remain on course.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is appalled by the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Honourable Justice Kolawole Omotosho, describing it as an assault on Nigeria’s democratic process.
“Nonetheless, the judgment does not prevent the party from continuing with activities and processes leading up to the National Convention to elect new National Officers who will steer the affairs of the party for the next four years,” the statement read.
Ologunagba noted that a recent Supreme Court decision had reaffirmed the supremacy of political parties in managing their internal affairs, adding that all members, chapters, and organs of the party should remain focused on preparations for the convention.
He further disclosed that the party has directed its legal team to immediately appeal the ruling, reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law and the protection of multi-party democracy in Nigeria.
