The Court of Appeal is expected to deliver judgment on Monday, March 9, 2026, over the leadership crisis rocking Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the PDP Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has urged party supporters and Nigerians to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding before, during, and after the ruling.
The forum, chaired by Bauchi State Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, made the appeal ahead of the anticipated court decision.
In a statement signed by the Director-General of the PDP-GF, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, the forum stressed the need to respect the judicial process at what it described as a critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“We stand at a defining moment for our democracy. The judiciary, as the custodian of justice, carries the weight of ensuring fairness, impartiality, and the preservation of national stability,” the statement said.
The forum noted that regardless of the outcome of the judgment, the PDP remains committed to peace and the rule of law.
“Whatever the decision may be, the PDP reaffirms its respect for the judicial process and its commitment to peace,” it added.
According to the PDP Governors’ Forum, the party has historically played a significant role in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“The PDP has always been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic journey. Our party has governed, opposed, and contributed to the strengthening of institutions that protect the rights of citizens,” the statement read.
The governors also urged members and supporters of the party, as well as Nigerians generally, to react to the court’s decision with maturity and discipline.
“We urge our members, supporters, and indeed all Nigerians to remain calm and disciplined in their reactions to the ruling. Our collective response must reflect maturity and a deep respect for the rule of law,” the forum said.
It added that the party leadership would meet immediately after the judgment to review the ruling and determine the next course of action.
The PDP-GF also reiterated the party’s commitment to democratic values and internal competition as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections.
“Democracy thrives on diversity of voices, competition of ideas, and the ability of citizens to choose from credible alternatives. The PDP will continue to embody these values,” the forum said, urging members with political ambitions to trust the party’s platform ahead of the polls.
“Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the PDP remains resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a strong, credible, and people-centered alternative,” the statement said.
“Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the PDP remains resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a strong, credible, and people-centered alternative,” the statement said.
The forum concluded by expressing confidence in the judiciary’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
“The judiciary has always remained the only impartial and people-oriented arm of government whose tireless defense of the constitution has ensured the stability of our democratic governance,” it added.