Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has halted the planned 2025 National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) until the party complies with its constitution, statutory requirements, and the provisions of the Electoral Act.

Delivering judgment on Friday in a suit filed by three aggrieved members, Justice Omotosho also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or recognising the outcome of any PDP convention conducted without due process and in violation of the law.

The judge held that INEC “is not entitled to give effect to a convention not conducted in accordance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and the guidelines or regulations of a political party.”

The plaintiffs had sought to stop the PDP’s planned National Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, where new national officers were expected to be elected. They cited breaches of the party’s constitution and procedural irregularities.

The nine defendants in the suit are: INEC, the PDP, Mr. Samuel Anyanwu (National Secretary), Mr. Umar Bature (National Organising Secretary), the National Working Committee (NWC), the National Executive Committee (NEC), Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum, Mr. Ali Odefa, and Mr. Emmanuel Ogidi.

PDP Rejects Court Verdict

The PDP has, however, rejected the judgment, insisting that it remains on course to hold its convention as planned.

National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Debo Ologunagba, described the verdict as “an assault on Nigeria’s democratic process” and directed members, chapters, and organs of the party to continue preparations.

“The judgment of the Federal High Court does not invalidate our ability to proceed with the processes and activities towards the National Convention to elect new national officers,” Ologunagba said in a statement.

He added that the decision would be appealed immediately.

“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is appalled by the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, presided over by Hon. Justice Kolawole Omotosho, describing it as an assault on Nigeria’s democratic process,” he said.

“Nevertheless, the PDP remains steadfast. The Supreme Court recently reaffirmed the supremacy of political parties in managing their internal affairs. Our members must therefore remain focused and committed to the preparations for the National Convention.”

Ologunagba reiterated the party’s commitment to the rule of law, saying its legal team had been directed to file an appeal promptly.

“As the leading opposition party, the PDP will continue to uphold, defend, and promote multi-party democracy in Nigeria,” he added.