The Federal High Court in Abuja has once more halted the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from proceeding with its planned national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State. The order will remain in effect pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit filed by former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido.
Justice Peter Lifu ruled that Lamido’s application had merit. Consequently, the court also issued an order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from “monitoring, supervising or recognising the outcome of the convention, pending the hearing and determination of the suit before him.”
Referencing an earlier judgment delivered by Justice James Omotosho on October 31, which had similarly stopped the PDP from holding the convention, Justice Lifu stated that granting Lamido’s request was necessary “in the interest of justice.” He further explained that allowing the PDP to proceed with the convention would cause greater harm to the former governor, making it imperative to issue a preservative order.
The PDP had scheduled its national convention for November 15 and 16.
In his motion ex-parte filed on October 31, Lamido—through his counsel, Jeph Njikonye, SAN—urged the court to grant an interim injunction “pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice filed alongside.”
Lamido argued that if the PDP were not restrained, the party would breach its constitution and deny him the opportunity to vie for the position of national chairman, a post he claims to be “eminently qualified to contest.”
Justice Lifu initially declined to grant the motion when it was first presented on October 31. Instead, he ordered the PDP and INEC—listed as the 1st and 2nd defendants in the case marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2299/2025—to appear before the court and “show cause why the ex-governor’s reliefs should not be granted.”
The judge directed both defendants to respond within 72 hours of being served and adjourned the matter to November 6 for hearing. On that date, the PDP and INEC submitted their respective affidavits opposing Lamido’s application, urging the court to dismiss it. Justice Lifu then reserved his ruling until Tuesday, when the restraining order was officially granted.
