A Federal High Court in Abuja has halted the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from holding its planned national convention slated for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The convention was expected to produce new national officers for the opposition party, but the court order has now thrown the party’s preparations into disarray.
Naija News reports that the ruling followed a suit filed by three PDP officials — Austin Nwachukwu (Imo PDP Chairman), Amah Nnanna (Abia PDP Chairman), and Turnah George (South-South PDP Secretary) — who alleged that the planned convention violated the PDP constitution and due process.
Plaintiffs Allege Breach of Constitution
In their suit, the trio claimed that no congresses were conducted in 14 states, which, according to them, makes the proposed convention illegal.
Their counsel argued that the PDP failed to comply with its internal constitution, the 1999 Constitution, and the Electoral Act, urging the court to restrain the party and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing any decisions made at such a convention.
He maintained that the issue before the court could not be dismissed as a mere internal party dispute, as it borders on adherence to the rule of law and fairness within the party.
Court Orders PDP To Suspend Convention
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice James Omotosho ordered the PDP to suspend all preparations for the convention until it complies with the necessary procedures.
The judge also directed the party to “put its house in order” and issue the mandatory 21-day statutory notice before proceeding with any national gathering.
The ruling is seen as a major setback for the opposition party, which has been struggling to resolve internal leadership and zoning crises ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political observers believe the decision could deepen divisions within the PDP and further test its readiness to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in future polls.
