The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday declined an ex parte application seeking to restrain Senator Ireti Kingibe from participating in the activities of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a ruling delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, the court refused the request brought by some ward leaders from Wuse in the Federal Capital Territory, who alleged that the lawmaker had been suspended over anti-party activities.
Rather than granting the application, the court directed the plaintiffs to put the senator on notice, giving her the opportunity to respond to the allegations and present her defence.
The ward leaders—reported to be aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike—had approached the court seeking an interim injunction to prevent Kingibe from presenting herself as a member of the party or taking part in its activities.
Delivering his ruling, Justice Lifu emphasised the need for fairness and due process, particularly in politically sensitive cases.
He noted that the court must exercise its discretion carefully and ensure that all parties are given equal opportunity to present their arguments.
“Justice will only be served when both sides are heard on merit,” the judge held.
He subsequently ordered that all court processes be served on the senator and adjourned the matter until April 20, 2026, for the hearing of pending applications.
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The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CV/539/2026, was filed by Okezuo Anayo and Isaiah Samuel on behalf of themselves and other ward members, with Kingibe listed as the sole defendant.
In their application, the plaintiffs claimed that the senator—who represents the Federal Capital Territory in the Senate—was suspended on March 10, 2026, by Wuse Ward executives over alleged misconduct and violation of the party’s constitution.
They argued that her suspension followed due process and was ratified by a two-thirds majority of the ward’s executive committee.
Despite this, they alleged that Kingibe continued to act as a party member, holding parallel meetings, issuing statements, and interfering in ward administration.
The plaintiffs also accused her of intimidating ward officials, claiming she used security aides to assert influence, an allegation that has yet to be tested in court.
Meanwhile, a lawyer, Abubakar Marshall, who appeared on behalf of the senator, informed the court that a preliminary objection challenging the competence of the suit had already been filed and served on the plaintiffs’ counsel.
The case adds to growing internal tensions within the ADC, as political actors reposition ahead of future electoral contests.