Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has reiterated that his order directing parties to maintain the status quo regarding the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention remains in full effect.
The judge, on Thursday, warned all parties involved in the ongoing legal dispute not to take any action that could undermine or render the court’s decision ineffective. He cautioned that any attempt to disregard the order or resort to self-help would attract consequential sanctions.
Justice Omotosho’s remarks followed a complaint from PDP’s counsel, Chris Uche (SAN), who argued that the order was preventing his client from proceeding with essential preparations for the convention. He, therefore, appealed for an expedited hearing of the matter.
Responding, the judge assured parties that the court would work diligently to deliver judgment before the end of October, ensuring a timely resolution ahead of the convention dates.
He stated:
“You and I, as lawyers and ministers in the temple of justice, know that once a suit is filed and parties have been served, it is the law that no one should take further steps on the matter. The court must not be overreached. If it happens, the court has the power to nullify such acts. Let us all respect the law—it is in our collective interest.”
Justice Omotosho emphasized that no party would be allowed to use delay tactics in the case challenging the legality of the PDP’s proposed national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
He assured that judgment copies would be provided to all parties immediately after delivery, adding that he personally types his rulings to avoid unnecessary delays.
The judge also fixed Monday, October 20, for the definite hearing of the originating summons filed by three aggrieved PDP members against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and eight others.
He ordered that all parties must exchange their filed processes by October 17 to ensure a smooth and timely hearing.
During Thursday’s proceedings, a mild drama ensued as Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), the PDP’s National Legal Adviser, and Chris Uche (SAN) both announced appearances for the party. Justice Omotosho subsequently directed them to submit written arguments so the court could determine the party’s legitimate legal representative.
The suit was instituted by Hon. Austin Nwachukwu (Imo PDP Chairman), Hon. Amah Abraham Nnanna (Abia PDP Chairman), and Turnah Alabh George (PDP Secretary, South-South). The plaintiffs are seeking an order to halt the planned convention where new national officers are expected to be elected.
The nine defendants in the case include the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the PDP, National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, National Organizing Secretary Umar Bature, the National Working Committee (NWC), the National Executive Committee (NEC), Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, Ali Odefa, and Emmanuel Ogidi.