The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, November 14, directed the Peoples Democratic Party to halt its national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The order followed a suit filed by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido. Justice Peter Lifu restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission from supervising, monitoring or recognising any convention held by the PDP without including Lamido as a contestant.
Justice Lifu ruled that evidence before the court showed Lamido was denied the chance to obtain a nomination form for the position of National Chairman, which violated the PDP Constitution and its internal rules.
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The court stated that the PDP had an obligation to provide fair opportunities for its members by ensuring that they could pursue their political ambitions.
As part of the orders issued, Justice Lifu directed the party to suspend preparations for the convention so Lamido could obtain the nomination form, mobilise supporters and run his campaign.
“An order is hereby made that before any convention is held, the PDP is to make nomination forms available to the plaintiff.
“In the light of the above, it is hereby held that the convention be put on hold for the plaintiff to obtain a nomination form, campaign and mobilise supporters,” the judge declared.