The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to the Tanimu Turaki–led faction has raised an alarm over an alleged plan by expelled members to occupy the party’s National Secretariat and other properties, warning that any such move would be illegal and resisted through legal means.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP said it had received information suggesting that some expelled members were planning to forcibly, or in collaboration with security operatives, gain access to and take over the National Secretariat and other party assets.
The party said it had formally notified law enforcement authorities to forestall any unlawful action.
“We have written to the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, reminding them that the secretariat remains a res before the Federal High Court, Abuja, and the Court of Appeal,” the statement said.
According to the PDP, any attempt to occupy the secretariat while the matter is still before the courts would amount to self-help and a violation of established legal principles.
The party noted that the suit, which is currently before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, was instituted by the expelled members, stressing that they are legally barred from taking any action until the court delivers its judgment.
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It further warned that granting access to any party while the case is pending would amount to contempt of court, particularly as the Nigeria Police Force is a party to the suit.
“This statement serves to remind all concerned, especially the Police Force, that any action taken to grant access to anybody pending the determination of the suit is a contempt of court,” the PDP said.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its properties, stating that it would deploy all legal means to prevent trespass and hold those responsible for any injury to persons or damage to property accountable.