The Federal High Court in Ibadan has nullified the November 2025 national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), barring Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and others elected at the convention from acting as party officers. Justice Uche Agomoh ruled that the convention was held in violation of two previous court judgments, describing the attempt to validate it as a “brazen effort” to legitimize illegalities.
The court affirmed that the Caretaker Committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed and Senator Samuel Anyanwu remains the only recognized National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP until a valid national convention is conducted. All decisions made at the Ibadan convention were set aside, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was directed to recognize the caretaker committee.
The Turaki faction immediately rejected the ruling, filing an appeal and motion for stay of execution, insisting their NWC remains legally intact. National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong urged members to remain calm, noting that multiple related judgments are already pending at the Court of Appeal. Turaki also criticized the court for granting reliefs not sought by any party, emphasizing that courts are not charitable institutions.
Meanwhile, the Abdulrahman Mohammed faction hailed the judgment as a victory for democracy and internal party legality. Spokesman Jungude Haruna Mohammed said it reaffirmed that legitimacy derives from strict compliance with party constitutions, laws, and valid court orders. The faction called for unity, reconciliation, and continued adherence to due process.
The Imo State PDP chapter echoed support for the caretaker committee, asserting that the nullification stabilizes the party and strengthens its position as Nigeria’s leading opposition.
The legal battle underscores persistent factional tensions within the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both sides appealing to supporters for calm while awaiting the appellate court’s decisions.
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