Court stops PDP convention, ruling that Sule Lamido was unfairly excluded and must be allowed to obtain a nomination form and contest.
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday ordered the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to suspend its national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State. Justice Peter Lifu issued the order while delivering judgment in a suit filed by former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido.
The court restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission from supervising, monitoring or recognising any convention conducted by the PDP “without including the plaintiff as a contestant.” Justice Lifu held that evidence showed Lamido was unjustly denied the opportunity to obtain a nomination form to contest for National Chairman, in violation of the party’s constitution.
According to the court, the PDP is duty-bound to create avenues for members to pursue political aspirations. As a consequential order, Lifu directed that the convention be suspended to allow Lamido obtain the nomination form, mobilise supporters and campaign.
“An order is hereby made that before any convention is held, the PDP is to make nomination forms available to the plaintiff,” the judge declared.