By Mustapha Umar
The Federal High Court in Abuja has halted the Peoples Democratic Party’s planned national convention slated for this weekend in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Peter Lifu issued an order restraining both the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission from proceeding with or recognising any convention conducted without the participation of former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, as a duly admitted contestant.
The court held that Lamido was unfairly barred from obtaining the nomination form to vie for the position of National Chairman, a decision it ruled was inconsistent with the party’s constitution and internal regulations. It added that political parties carry a responsibility to create fair opportunities for their members to pursue leadership ambitions.
Justice Lifu further directed the PDP to suspend all convention activities to allow Lamido purchase the necessary nomination documents, rally his supporters, and campaign appropriately before any congress can lawfully take place.
