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Category: Politics

PDP crisis deepens as party’s leaders reject panel’s call to halt national convention

Despite the decision of the Ambassador Umar Damagum–led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership to proceed with Saturday’s national convention in Ibadan, the PDP Reconciliation Committee, chaired by Ambassador Hassan Adamu, had recommended putting the planned convention on hold and constituting an all-inclusive Caretaker Committee to address all outstanding disputes.

At a stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday night, the National Convention Organising Committee, led by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, dismissed the recommendation and declared that the Ibadan convention was sacrosanct and would go ahead as scheduled.

A report of the Reconciliation Committee, made available to journalists on Friday, accused three governors and other senior party figures of prioritising personal interests over the party’s unity, alleging that loyalty to individuals had overshadowed loyalty to the PDP.

The committee’s findings, submitted to the Board of Trustees chaired by Senator Adolphus Wabara, also detailed mutual accusations of betrayal between PDP governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, with both sides alleging disregard for existing internal agreements.

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The report was signed by Ambassador Hassan Adamu (North East) – Chairman; Chief Mike Oghiadomhe (South South) – Secretary; Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola (South West); Senator Zaynab Kure (North Central); Dr. Lubna Gusau (North West); and Chief Ugochukwu Okeke (South East), who served as members.

The report said, “In the course of this assignment, we found out that friction, distrust, and lack of sincerity had festered for too long amongst the key players (Governors & NWC members), and the year 2027 became an issue with regard to who gets what. This affected the smooth running of the Party.

“Job descriptions were tempered within the NWC. The spirit of carrying each other along got affected. Camps became birthed within. Loyalties got shifted more to individuals than the Party. Litigation in courts across the strata got attended to, not with the speed and candour resulting in more crises”.

It recommended, “Going ahead with the convention at this time must be subject to favourable legal status and disposition of INEC. However, considering the multiple court orders and judgments, INEC is not likely to monitor the Convention.

“Accordingly, an all-inclusive Care Takers Committee (CTC) is recommended because a failed convention will incapacitate the tenability of the party to field candidates at all levels nationally. For this to be effected, all the NWC should revert to the status quo ante immediately.

“Suspension orders should be lifted and all parties brought together for genuine reconciliation. The BOT must be given its prime position to be able to mediate and guide processes within the Party. On her part, the BoT must be seen to be neutral.

“The constitution of the Party must be amended to accommodate some key issues. The intention to grant the Governors Forum status as an ORGAN of the party by constitutional amendment should not be done at this time.

“Above all, the Party constitution must be upheld always. Party supremacy and discipline are core. There is therefore the need for the BoT, NWC, Governors Forum, and all critical stakeholders to come together and resolve all these issues to allow for a successful hitch-free convention going forward.”

The Committee reported that it met with the FCT Minister, the PDP Governors Forum led by Senator Bala Mohammed, members of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Ambassador Iliya Damagum, and the suspended members of the NWC (comprising Sen. Anyanwu (the National secretary), Bature (the organizing secretary), and Bar. Ajibade SAN (the National legal adviser), as well as former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, in the course of their assignment.

It reported that “Wike questioned the reconciliation committee’s integrity and neutrality, citing its formation in a meeting attended by the Damagun-led NWC, while objecting to the BoT’s declaration supporting the Damagun-led NWC and the Oyo State High Court judgment, feeling it prejudiced his cooperation.

“Minister Wike suggested the BoT should have met without parties present and then invited both sides. He criticized the zoning committee’s process, alleging fundamental errors and exclusion from consultations.

“Minister Wike accused the Governors’ Forum, led by Gov. Bala and Seyi Makinde, of hijacking party processes and pursuing selfish agendas. He alleged some Governors, including Diri, Kefas Agbu, and Peter Mba, secretly collaborated with the ruling party.

“Minister Wike expressed discontent over cancelled congresses, particularly in South-South, South East, Anambra, and Ebonyi states. He insisted the convention would only proceed if the Abuja High Court orders are obeyed, threatening continued activism due to Governors’ non-compliance with agreements”.

On the meeting with the governor, the report said ‘Governor Bala Mohammed met with the committee, accompanied by Governors Muftwang and Makinde, who excused themselves due to other commitments. They assured that discussions would be binding on them.

“Governor Bala accused Minister Wike of betrayal, causing confusion, and disregarding the party constitution. He stated that the Governors’ Forum had fulfilled agreements, but Minister Wike insisted on absolute control. He alleged that Minister Wike aims to weaken and destroy the PDP.

“Governor Bala described Minister Wike as trouble-prone and unlikely to cease attacks on the party and its structures”.

On the meeting with the Damagun-led NWC, the report said the Deputy National Chairman, Amb. Arapaja represented Damagun, leading 10 NWC members, while 5 other NWC members sent apologies

The report explained that “the National Secretary and others were suspended due to anti-party activities, despite repeated warnings, and that the suspended members were accused of dealing with party matters in a high-handed and indisciplined manner.

“The NWC appreciated the Governors’ financial support, but noted that their competition for control contributed to the crisis. Suspended NWC members were accused of having ulterior motives and being influenced by Hon. Minister Wike.

“The National Organizing Secretary (NOS) was accused of running a one-man show and having a hidden agenda that negatively impacted state congresses. The NLA was accused of working against the party’s interest in legal issues.

“The NWC pledged to cooperate with the committee to achieve a peaceful resolution but expressed reservations about other factions’ willingness to embrace peace.”

It said the Meeting with National Secretary (NS), National Organizing Secretary (NOS), and National Legal Adviser (NLA) took place at the residence of the National Secretary

It said, “NS, NOS, and NLA appreciate the BOT Reconciliation Committee’s composition, but express unhappiness about the meeting setup with Damagun-led NWC present. They accuse some BOT members of contributing to issues in their states and zones.

“They accuse Damagun and his team of disobeying court orders. They allege Gov. Bala, Diri, and Makinde have hidden agendas, creating conflicts. They claim Chairman Damagun met with Governors without NWC input, agreeing to a National Convention.

“They criticise excluding Minister Wike from key decisions, like zoning national, zonal, and state offices, accuse the Chairman and Governors of not keeping agreements, while accusing the National Chairman and Publicity Secretary of running the party without consulting NWC members.

“They emphasise the legitimacy of Chief Ali Odefa’s suspension, citing a court judgment, insisting that NLA notes documents signed by Ali Odefa are illegal and letters to INEC must be signed by NC and NS, but this isn’t being followed.

“They accuse the National Chairman of terminating staff appointments and salaries, they claim the party didn’t meet the 21-day notice to INEC, making the National Convention shaky, and identify Gov. Makinde as a major crisis contributor and Damagun as incompetent.

“They provide evidence of conflicting directives from the National Chairman, while NOS states the National Convention process doesn’t follow the party constitution, and clarify the purported judgment doesn’t explicitly approve the convention.”

The report also contained an extract from. The meeting with former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, who the report quoted as saying that he has never met President Tinubu, but sacrificed political partnerships for party peace, and was also said to have identified the issue of the National Secretary and a rancour-free National Convention as remaining unresolved due to Governors’ ego/selfishness.

Saraki was quoted to have said that the Governors agreed on a solution granting the structure in Rivers state to Wike, but reneged, pointing out that the agreement for state and zonal congresses collapsed after Amb. Damagun was confirmed National chairman.

Saraki also referred to infighting between Minister Wike, Govs. Fintiri, Bala, and Makinde, saying the governors made selfish, detrimental decisions, while expressing the fear that proceeding with the Ibadan Convention under the present circumstances will fracture the party irreparably.

Saraki was said to have recommended the formation of a caretaker executive committee inclusive of all stakeholders, while Governors. Makinde & Bala Mohammed should retreat and cooperate as the only way to avert destruction.

Saraki was also said to have warned of the consequences of allowing the crisis to linger, which include the eventual defection of first-term Governors of Osun, Plateau, and Zamfara, as they cannot contest second terms on a fractured party.

He also recommended that the Governors’ Forum should not be an organ of the party in any constitutional amendment, while the BoT must be impartial, upright, and inspire confidence.

November 14, 2025
Ibadan 2025: Oyo police expresses readiness for hitch-free PDP convention

Oyo State Police Command on Friday said it is ready to ensure a hitch-free activity before, during, and after the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party slated for Ibadan, the Oyo State capital city, on Saturday and Sunday.

In a statement, the spokesman of the Command, Adewale Osifeso, a Chief Superintendent of Police, said the Command is ramping up security measures to guarantee a safe and peaceful event.

He added that, anticipating a large turnout, the Command, in partnership with other sister services, has meticulously developed a robust security strategy which includes proactive patrols designed to build public confidence, increased surveillance activities, and intelligence-driven stop-and-search operations throughout the state.

He also issues a clear warning against any forms of public unrest, including unauthorized rallies or gatherings within the city before, during, or after the event.

He furthered that attention will be heightened at all key access points into and out of Oyo State, especially around the convention venue, adding that critical locations such as public parks, train stations, and the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan will be closely monitored.

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The statement reads in part, “With the upcoming National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party taking place on Saturday, 15th, and Sunday, 16th November 2025, at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, the Oyo State Police Command is ramping up security measures to guarantee a safe and peaceful event.

“This significant gathering is set to attract key political figures, international observers, media representatives, guests, and participants from across the nation.

“Anticipating a large turnout, the Oyo State Police Command, in partnership with other sister services, has meticulously developed a robust security strategy.

“This strategy includes proactive patrols designed to build public confidence, increased surveillance activities, and intelligence-driven stop-and-search operations throughout the state.

“Attention will be heightened at all key access points into and out of Oyo State, especially around the convention venue.

“Critical locations such as public parks, train stations, and the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan will be closely monitored.

“In light of these preparations, we encourage members of the public to explore alternative routes from the venue in a bid to prevent any potential disruptions in their movement plans for the period in view.

“The Command also issues a clear warning against any forms of public unrest, including unauthorized rallies or gatherings within the city before, during, or after the event.

“To ensure the safety of all individuals and property during this crucial convention, the Oyo State Police Command urges the community to comply with all guidelines and help cultivate a peaceful atmosphere during this important occasion.

“We also invite the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or concerns to the nearest police station or through the dedicated emergency contact numbers provided by the police.”

November 14, 2025
We are building community of leaders through LMI, says Gbajabiamila

Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has said that the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) is building a community of leaders committed to public service.

Speaking at the inauguration of the fourth cohort of LMI in Abuja, Gbajabiamila said the initiative is expanding across Africa in partnership with the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL), led by its Secretary-General, Ambassador Dapo Oyewole.

The former Speaker, who is the founder of the initiative, reaffirmed the vision behind the initiative, describing leadership as “a conscious act of service and a deliberate choice to rise above self and give meaning to the lives of others.”

He reflected on LMI’s journey since its inception in 2022, emphasising that what began as a Nigerian project has evolved into a continental model of mentorship and legislative capacity development, with the alumni making a tangible impact across public institutions ranging from the State Houses of assembly to the National Assembly, and in civil society organisations across Africa.

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He said, “History will judge us by how well we prepare those who will inherit our institutions, our democracy, and our shared destiny. Through LMI, we are building a living community of leaders bound by shared values, integrity, empathy, and a passion for public service.

“The Legislative Mentorship Initiative will now operate under the framework of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures. Through this partnership, African Parliaments will be able to nominate exceptional young leaders to participate in the fellowship — building a continent-wide network of young Africans who will learn, collaborate, and shape the future of our continent together.”

The former Speaker also announced the Oluwadamilola Agbaje Outstanding Fellow Award, named in honour of a late alumnus, to recognise other fellows who exemplified integrity and excellence in public service.

In his remarks, Amb. Oyewole, who is also Chairman of LMI Planning and Advisory Committee, commended the Founder for his vision, reaffirming CoSPAL’s commitment towards scaling the Initiative’s impact across Africa.

“The three years in which I have been responsible for running the Legislative Mentorship Initiative under the leadership of our Founder have been truly remarkable. I am deeply thankful for his leadership and the trust he bestowed in me, alongside my exceptional team, to manage this programme. In just three years, LMI has become one of Africa’s most respected leadership development programmes.

“As we expand LMI to other Africans, under the auspices of CoSPAL, we aim to institutionalise mentorship across parliaments, strengthen intergenerational leadership pipelines, and build a new architecture for public sector excellence in Africa.”

Oyewole further stated that under CoSPAL, LMI will serve as a pan-African public sector leadership academy to strengthen capacity and foster collaboration among young leaders and emerging legislators across the continent, in line with the vision of LMI’s founder.

He urged the LMI Cohort Four to embody “moral, intellectual, and responsive leadership that listens, learns, and leads with empathy and vision.”

Director of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative, Ms. Solape Sonuga, expressed gratitude to the Founder as well as the CoSPAL’s leadership for the renewed direction of the programme, describing LMI as “a convergence of shared purpose and intergenerational collaboration.”

“From over 7,000 applications, only 50 exceptional young Nigerians were selected for this cohort. This opportunity represents not just personal growth, but a collective responsibility to redefine leadership across our continent,” she said.

November 14, 2025
Wike tackles Buratai over comment on clash with naval officer

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike on Thursday expressed disappointment over what he described as misinterpretation of the incident that occurred last Tuesday with Naval officers led by Lt A.M Yerima.

Wike questioned the comment by the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), that his action is a threat to national security and a slight on the authority of President Bola Tinubu..

The Minister, who addressed reporters at his official residence at Life Camp, faulted Buratai, for asking him to apologise to Lt. Yerima for the incident which happened in Gaduwa District of Abuja, saying the former Army chief cannot educate him about decency.

The Minister also did not spare Yarima for his role in the altercation that escalated over the disputed parcel of land that belonged to former Naval Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, which the FCT Administration said was illegal.

He accused the naval officer of accepting an illegal order in stark contravention of the rule of law.

Wike said: “I read what one former Chief of Army Staff wrote. He cannot tell me of decency and he can’t teach me. This was the same man who (allegedly) directed his GOC to rig election, my election in 2019. He couldn’t rig me. He lost.

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“He told his GOC to kill me and I could not be killed. He became an agent in APC primaries to one of APC’s presidential aspirants. Look at the rank of a polling agent. He is the one commenting that the minister did this and that. I have never seen people like this.

“I have no regrets for my political opponents. I will continue to make them have sleepless nights. Whether you are in PDP, whether you are in APC, whether you are in ADC, it is not my business.

” I have no regrets supporting President Tinubu and I have never hidden my intention and I will continue to do what is right. So, if you like to write anything you want to write, as far as I know, I am standing by the side of the law. If you like, bring every ethnicity coloration, it is your business”.

Wike also blamed Lt. Yerima for the part in shoving by insisting he acted within the confines of his authority as a Minister representing President Bola Tinubu.

He said: “I mean, anybody should know. Yes, you are a young man and you are a commissioned officer. Mr man, I am a Minister and I’m representing Mr. President. That alone should have given you that decorum. But no, no you chose to challenge the Minister representing the President.

“And then you think that I am not a human being, I have no emotions. You are carrying out an illegal job. When people say, Order, do you need to carry out an illegal order? When you are an officer, you are doing something illegal. Even if it’s a legal order given to you, that job you are doing is illegal. I went there as an institution not a private individual, they arrested our officials”.

He cautioned everyone irrespective of position to respect the rule of law at all times.

November 13, 2025
Stay away from Ibadan convention, Wike’s group warn PDP members

A. Group of PDP stakeholders under the auspices of the Progressive and Democratic Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked members, delegates and leaders of the party to stay away from Saturday’s national Convention of the party in Ibadan.

In a communique at the end of their meeting in Abuja, they said that going ahead with the convention would amount to an afront on the rule of law which they said amount to lawlessness

Stakeholders at the meeting were FCT Minister, Nyelsom Wike; factional Acting National Chairman, Mohammed Abdulrahman; factional BOT Chairman, Mao Ohuabunnwa ; National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu ; Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda among others others

The communique reads: “The Progressive and Democratic Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party reaffirm our unwavering commitment to peace, lawful conduct, and the sanctity of due process. As custodians of the party’s democratic ethos, we shall continue to act strictly within the ambits of the law and consciously distance ourselves from any posture, action, or gathering that bears the character of lawlessness.

“While we acknowledge the constitutional liberty of any group of Nigerians to assemble, we emphasize that such assemblies—when conducted in defiance of subsisting judicial pronouncements—hold no meaning, legitimacy, or binding effect on the PDP family.

“Our party can only stand, succeed, and prosper on the solid foundation of respect for the rule of law, not by indulging or enabling actions that undermine it.

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“In this regard, the proposed national convention in Ibadan is not only at variance with the clear judgment of the Federal High Court, but is also against the spirit of the law and the rule of law. We therefore enjoin all respecters of the law—party members, leaders, delegates, and stakeholders—to keep away from any activity, assembly, or process that stands in open contradiction to lawful directives and judicial clarity.

“The PDP cannot, and will not, proceed with any national convention while congresses at the state and local government levels remain unresolved and are still pending before a court of competent jurisdiction. To do otherwise would amount to a direct assault on the rule of law and an invitation to disorder within the party.

“Our commitment is simple and firm: the PDP shall stand, and we shall stand by doing what is right. By upholding the law, honouring the courts, and protecting the integrity of our internal processes, we shall lead the party toward stability, unity, and enduring success.

“We remain confident that by respecting the rule of law, the PDP will not only prevail, but also emerge stronger, more cohesive, and better positioned to fulfil its historic mission in Nigeria’s democracy”.

November 13, 2025
Nothing unusual about conflicting court decisions on PDP crisis- Justice Adejumo

The Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI) Justice Babatunde Adejumo has argued that there was nothing unusual for courts of coordinate jurisdiction to render conflicting decisions on cases with similar facts.

Justice Adejumo, the immediate past President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) said judges give judgements based on their understanding of the law and the facts presented.

He said the controversies generated by such developments were unnecessary because there are always remedies available under the law.

Justice Adejumo said, even in what appears as the worst scenario, where two courts in the same jurisdiction go e conflicting decisions, that did not mean any wrong has been committed, except it is established that ulterior motive was involved.

He also stressed the need for the Judiciary to maintain it’s integrity and ensure the protection of the rule of law, arguing that countries without respect for the law are always isolated by others, who values the concept of rule of law.

The NJI Administrator spoke in Abuja on Thursday at a media briefing to herald the 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference, scheduled to begin on November 17 at the NJI in Abuja

He said over 1000 judges are expected at the conference being organised by the NJI, and which will afford the judicial offers to reflect on the past year, plan for a better outing next year and address issues bothering the judicial system and the country.

Justice Adejumo, who was reacting to the controversy over the conflicting decisions by two Federal High Courts in Abuja and a High Court in Abuja on the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said no court of coordinate jurisdiction is bound by the decision of another.

He said: “You see, in the Judiciary, respective judges give judgments according to their understanding of the law and the way they see things.

“And, you don’t just give judgment, judgment must be based on the facts as presented to the cour and, as provable with credible evidence.

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“That is why, even in the United States of America which is believed as the oldest democracy, and where they have a judicial system that is superb, they have state courts.

“A court in New York or Washington may deliver a judgment and when another court in Maryland, just some few kilometres away; or New Jersey, very close to New York, may give a different opinion about the same set of facts.

“It depends on the interpretation of the law based on the facts and evidence,” he said.

Justice Adejumo said as it relates to the complaint that there are instances of conflicting judgments by courts of coordinate jurisdiction in Nigeria, the development is not a new thing.

He added: “And, that is why we have ladders of courts. If two, three courts give conflicting decisions on the same subject matter, the aggrieved party may proceed to the Court of Appeal, which will have a better say.

“If any of the parties is not yet satisfied, it goes to the apex court, which is the final court. And, whatever that court says on that matter settles that issue,” he said.

The NJI Administrator added that it should always be noted that all the courts are established by different statutes and laws, noting that while the Federal High Court and the HIgh Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are established by the laws enacted by the National Assembly, the HIgh Courts of the various states are established by the laws passed by the states’s Assemblies.

He argued that no court is bound to follow the judgment of a coordinate jurisdiction.

Justice Adejumo however, noted that “it would amount to judicial rascality if, for instance the Court of Appeal has given on a dispute and a High Court, instead of following the decision of the higher court, now gives a conflicting decision, that will not be acceptable.

“And, if the Supreme Court has spoken, no division of the Court of Appeal would speak differently, except if they are trying to use the Canon of Interpretation.

“For instance, if some words are used in the judgment, (of the apex court) that are not clear to the lower court, it might interpret it and try to see the way it gets settles the issue.

“So, having conflicting decisions in Nigerian courts of coordinate jurisdiction, is not a new thing. It is allowed.

“But, it would have been better if there laws are amended through their rules of court, to provide that, for you to come to court, seeking for redress, you must swear to an affidavit that, to the best of your knowledge, this issue (the subject matter of your case) has not been presented before any court of law.

“And, if it is later discovered that you lied, you are held to be perjuring on oath and a decision to sentencing is provided. So, until that is done, the situation will remain,” he said.

He added: “And so, we have the National Judicial Council (NJC). If you believe that the reason behind the conflicting decisions has an ulterior motive, you are free to petition. What will not sound very well is, if within the same jurisdiction, for instance in the FCT.

“If court A gives a decision on the same set of facts and court B now gives a different decision on the same facts, that may not be fine enough, but yet the judge (who gave the conflicting decision) has not committed any wrong, because it is the appellate that will tell us which of the two decisions to follow.

“That is why when court A says something on a set of facts and court B says something else in the same set of facts, people will say we are waiting for the decision of the Court of Appeal.

“I think, with my humble view, and with my experience on the Bench for a out 30 years; I was a Chief Magistrate, a Deputy Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, I was a High Court judge in Ondo State, and I was the President of the National Industrial Court for 16 and hals years, so, I think I have an idea of what adjudication means,” Justice Adejumo said.

On the how the Judiciary should conduct itself in a democracy, he said: “Confidence in the Judiciary is the cornerstone of democracy.

“It is the assurance that Justice will be dispensed fairly, impartially, and without fear or favour.

“A Judiciary that commands confidence is one that strengthens the rule of law, protects fundamental rights and upholds the values of equity and fairness.

“In discharging its responsibilities, the Judiciary must always be above board, because there is no country that will like to have anything to do with a country where there is no rule of law.

“The absence of rule of law means taking is back to the golden age and it means that we will be isolated.

“Any country that that fails to observe the rule of law, other civilised countries will not have anything to do with that country.

“No country will like to have direct trade with a country where the rule of law is not guaranteed.

“The dictates of the rule of law requires that all sides must be heard and a decision taken accordingly, so that both the winner and the loser will say, I know I lost, but justice has been done,” he said.

November 13, 2025
UPDATED: Abuja court fails to deliver judgment in Lamido’s case against PDP
- No new date yet
A Federal High Court in Abuja has failed to deliver its judgment earlier scheduled for November 13 in the suit filed by former governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido.

Lamido is by the suit, seeking among others, to stop the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) planned for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Justice Peter Lifu had on November 11, after taking final arguments from lawyers to parties in the suit, adjourned till November 13 for judgment.

When parties got to court on Thursday, an official of court announced that the judgment was not ready, but that parties would be notified when it is ready.

Justice Life had on November Justice Lifu adjourned till November 13 for judgment after lawyers to parties including Jeph Njikonye, SAN,(for Lamido); Omokayode Dada,SAN, (for the PDP) Joseph Daudu, SAN (for parties joined) made their final submissions.

Earlier before hearing the substantive suit, the judge gave a ruling on a motion filed by Lamido for interim injunctions against defendants in the suit.

In the ruling, Justice Lifu restrained the PDP from proceeding with its planned national convention.

He also restrained the Independent National Electrical Commission (INEC) from monitoring, supervising or recognising the outcome of the convention, pending the hearing and determination of the suit before him.

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The judge said the orders shall subsist pending the hearing and determination of Lamido’s substantive suit.

Justice Lifu said he was aware of a judgment delivered on October 31 by Justice James Omotosho (also if the Federal High Court, Abuja), stopping PDP from holding the convention.

He held that it would be in the interest of justice to grant Lamido’s request, noting that should the PDP be allowed to proceed with its convention, Lamido would suffer more, thereby making it appropriate for the court to issue preservative orders.

The judge held that evidence produced by the plaintiff revealed that the PDP’s timetable for the convention was not published for the attention of its members as required by law.

He noted that Lamido has undertaken to pay damages to the PDP in the event that his suit was found to be frivolous.

The judge noted that in a constitutional democracy, due process of law must be strictly adhered to by those in charge, adding that to do otherwise, would endanger democracy itself.

He said in line with Section 6 of the 1999 Constitution, court of law must not abdicate its responsibility of dispensing justice without fear or favour.

Lamido had, in his motion, argued among others, that if the PDP was not restrained by the court, the party would be violating its constitution, and by implication deny him the opportunity to contest for the position of the national chairman of the party, which he claimed to be eminently qualified to contest.
November 13, 2025
2027: APC NC Forum urges Mutfwang to join ruling party

The All Progressives Congress (APC) North Central Forum has called on Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to join the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the move as both “imperative and politically expedient.”

The group said aligning with the APC at this stage would not only strengthen Mutfwang’s political relevance but also fast-track development in Plateau State and across the North Central region.

Speaking in Jos on Thursday during the Forum’s third quarterly meeting, Chairman of the APC North Central Forum, Saleh Zazzaga, said Mutfwang’s leadership qualities and progressive mindset align naturally with the APC’s philosophy.

“Governor Mutfwang has shown through his words and actions that he is a progressive leader. For him to advance his developmental vision, he should follow his own mantra, ‘The Time is Now,’ and join the APC,” Zazzaga stated.

He added that such a move would place the governor in alignment with President Bola Tinubu, who has demonstrated a strong interest in Plateau’s development, and also enable him to collaborate effectively with other APC governors in the North Central region to drive growth and unity.

READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

Zazzaga noted that since most Plateau legislators are members of the APC, joining the ruling party would enhance executive-legislative cooperation, helping to address the state’s security and infrastructural challenges more effectively.

According to him, recent political developments have vindicated the Forum’s earlier call for Mutfwang to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC — a call the group made based on its political forecasts before and after the 2023 general elections.

Zazzaga also highlighted some of the Forum’s achievements, including advocacy for the creation of the North Central Development Commission, the successful campaign for the return of the APC National Chairmanship to the region, and its consistent support for President Tinubu’s policies.

“Among all our calls, one of the most strategic remains our appeal to Governor Caleb Mutfwang to join the APC. We have made this call since 2023, and though others are now echoing it, the truth remains that we saw the political direction long before anyone else did,” Zazzaga said.

Zazzaga, however, dismissed dissenting voices within the APC opposing Mutfwang’s possible defection, describing them as “politically short-sighted and out of tune with strategic realities.”

“Politics is about timing, foresight, and alignment. Now is the time for Mutfwang to join the APC and consolidate his good works with a stronger national platform,” he stressed.

November 13, 2025
APC moves to strengthen digital transformation with nationwide membership e-registration drive

In a renewed effort to reposition the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a modern, digitally driven, and people-centred political party, its National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to actualizing its membership e-registration exercise launched last year.

Yilwatda made this known on Thursday in Abuja while declaring open a one-day membership e-registration training workshop for the 36 state chairmen of the party.

Represented by the National Vice Chairman (North Central), Hon. Muazu Bawa Rijau, the APC chairman described the workshop as a major step in strengthening the party’s internal structures and promoting innovation in political organization.

He said the National Working Committee (NWC), under his leadership, attaches great importance to the digital registration initiative, adding that the APC must embrace technology as a vital tool for its future growth and sustainability.

“We believe that for the APC to remain a truly progressive and people-oriented party, it must embrace digital transformation, not as a choice, but as a necessity for growth, credibility, and sustainability,” Yilwatda stated.

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Also speaking at the event, the party’s National Organising Secretary, Muhammad Sulaiman Arugungu, said the goal of the exercise is to develop an efficient, transparent, and inclusive membership system that accurately reflects the APC’s strength and spread across the country.

He added that the initiative follows a series of zonal workshops earlier held across the six geopolitical zones, which brought together State Organising Secretaries and three representatives from each senatorial district to build capacity and ensure a smooth nationwide rollout of the e-registration process.

“Those sessions focused on the operational aspects of the e-registration system as well as top-down training.

“Today’s programme, however, is meant to ensure that our state chairmen, the custodians of party structures at the state level, fully understand both the technical framework and strategic importance of this initiative.

“Through this initiative, we will build a credible and verifiable digital database of APC members nationwide; Improve transparency and accountability in party management; Enhance communication and coordination between the National Secretariat and the grassroots; provide a reliable tool for congresses, primaries, and election planning; and strengthen our mobilization base ahead of the 2027 general elections”.

According to him, the reforms reflect the collective commitment to modernization, inclusivity, and organizational excellence, being emphasized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, and the NWC

Charging the State Chairmen, Arugungu said. “As leaders of the party in your respective states, your role in the success of this programme is pivotal. You are expected to provide leadership and supervision throughout the e-registration process.

“Ensure that others are properly trained and supported; Mobilize existing and prospective members to register digitally; Guarantee fairness, inclusivity, and transparency during implementation; and maintain open communication with the National Secretariat for updates, feedback, and coordination”.

Assuring the party leadership, the Chairman of the Forum of State Chairmen and Lagos State Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, said that leaders at the sub-national levels are ready to ensure the success of the project.

November 13, 2025
Don’t blame Tinubu for your woes – Okechukwu tells PDP

A founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osita Okechukwu, has advised some opposition elements in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), pointing accusing fingers at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the woes of the party to look inward.

He described the PDP’s current travails as “Karma taken home.”

Reacting to the crisis currently bedeviling the PDP, which has led to court forum shopping over the Ibadan Convention, Okechukwu said the opposition party was only reaping the fruits of the seeds earlier sown.

The former Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) recalled his earlier warning of April 7, 2022, where he cautioned the PDP against discarding the zoning convention that had sustained Nigeria’s democratic balance since 1999.

“While I am in league with those who empathize with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over its implosion,” Okechukwu said, “it is pertinent to recall my warning of April 7, 2022:

“By jettisoning the zoning convention, the PDP has purchased a vehicle tagged ‘No Refund After Payment.”

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He explained that by breaching its own constitution and the zoning principle that has served as the “golden convention” of the Fourth Republic, the PDP effectively “shot itself in the foot” and “endangered both its internal democracy and national unity.

“In addition, by this singular unforced error of selfishness,” he continued, “the PDP threw away the baby and the bath water.

“Most importantly, by abandoning the zoning of the presidency, the party deserted the Southern belt — its original stronghold — at a time the APC patriotically zoned its presidential ticket to the South.”

Okechukwu reiterated that the current implosion within the PDP is nothing but Karma taking its natural course, noting that “Karma is cause and effect, and nature has a way of recovering unpaid debts.”

He added that it was disingenuous for anyone to blame President Tinubu for the PDP’s self-inflicted wounds, reminding Nigerians that at the time of the PDP’s internal crisis in 2022, Tinubu himself was preoccupied with overcoming stiff opposition within his own party.

“Have we forgotten that Mr. President was, at that very time, battling those whom Her Excellency, Aisha Buhari, lamented had hijacked President Buhari’s government? He did not connive in breaching the rotation and zoning convention, and Tinubu can only be assessed on how many people he lifted out of poverty.” Okechukwu submitted.

He concluded that Nigeria’s Fourth Republic was founded on the principles of rotation and zoning — a unifying mechanism designed to hold the nation’s delicate diversity together.

Okechukwu insisted that “The violent breach of this convention is the root cause of the PDP’s present turmoil, whether or not it is the holding of the Ibadan Convention, is neither Tinubu nor Nyesom Wike’s fault.”

November 13, 2025