Court Halts Peoples Democratic Party’s Planned National Convention

A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an order stopping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from proceeding with its national convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The decision followed a suit filed by three senior members of the party who argued that the PDP violated its own constitution, the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during preparations for the convention.

Among the issues raised were allegations that the PDP failed to conduct valid state congresses in several states before planning the national convention, and that the mandatory 21-day notice required by law had not been given. The court held that the party must first address these shortcomings before a credible convention can be held.

In its ruling, the court also restrained INEC from recognising the outcome of any convention held under the current arrangements until the party fully complies with the necessary legal and constitutional provisions.

The development marks a major setback for the PDP’s leadership and could further complicate internal power dynamics as the 2027 election season approaches.