PDP vows to proceed with National Convention despite court’s ruling

By EZEKIEL OBI, Abuja-

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it 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.

Recalled that the Federal High Court in Abuja had restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing the outcome of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s forthcoming national convention. The court ruled that the PDP failed to comply with relevant laws and conditions for conducting the convention.

The judge, Justice James Omotosho, noted that the PDP did not hold congresses in some states, breaching the law. He also pointed out that the party’s national chairman signed notices and correspondence without the national secretary, violating the law and rendering such actions null and void.

The court further held that the PDP failed to issue the required 21-day notice for meetings and congresses, preventing INEC from monitoring them. Justice Omotosho advised the PDP to comply with the law before proceeding with the convention.

Reacting to the judgment, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, said in statement on Friday that the verdict 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”, he said.

The PDP spokesman, therefore, charged its members, Chapter 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”, Ologunagba said.