Introduction to the Crisis
Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, yesterday decried the Abuja Federal High Court’s ruling that halted the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention earlier scheduled for November 15-16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State. He spoke just as a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olabode George, called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to intervene over the ruling by Justice Olabode Omotosho that stopped the party’s elective National Convention.
Threat to Democracy
He warned Nigerians to be conscious of a surreptitious agenda by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a one-party civilian dictatorship in the country. In a statement, Olawepo-Hashim condemned the ruling halting the PDP convention, even as he raised the alarm that Nigeria’s democracy was under grave threat, alleging a coordinated effort by the ruling APC to cripple opposition politics. He said all efforts to destroy opposition parties in the country would fail.
Reaction from PDP Leaders
He described the court’s decision as part of a wider strategy to neutralise the PDP and “weaponise the judiciary against multi-party democracy.” WHILE calling for the NJC’s intervention, George warned that the judgment, if left unchecked, could have destabilising consequences for the country, citing historical instances, including the truncation of Nigeria’s First Republic in 1966, which he attributed partly to controversial court decisions.
Plans to Challenge the Ruling
Although he confirmed that the PDP would challenge Justice Omotosho’s ruling at the Court of Appeal, George stressed that the party would proceed with its convention. He also cautioned against any attempt to impose a one-party state in Nigeria, asserting that “this is what the government in power is working towards, and it will not succeed.” The remarks suggest that the PDP may be considering lodging a formal complaint with the NJC regarding Justice Omotosho’s conduct in relation to the injunction.
Suspension of PDP National Chairman
MEANWHILE, a former Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Ayodele Fayose, has declared support for the suspension of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Umar Damagum, saying that he will leave the party unceremoniously like his predecessor, Senator Iyorchia Ayu. Recall that the faction backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, led by the National Secretary, Sam Aynawu, announced the counter suspension of the National Chairman, Umar Damagum, and five other members of the National Working Committee.
Crisis in the South-West Chapter
Reacting to the development yesterday in Ado Ekiti, Fayose accused Damagun of being incompetent, saying he did not have what it would take to lead the PDP and that he stole that office through manipulation. Alluding to the crisis in the South-West chapter of the party, the former governor said: “They are not obeying their own constitution. They are not following due process.”
Conclusion
The current crisis in the PDP, coupled with the court ruling and the suspension of its National Chairman, poses significant challenges to the party’s stability and Nigeria’s democratic process. The interventions and reactions from key figures within the party and the call for the NJC’s intervention highlight the complexity of the situation. As the party navigates these challenges, the outcome will have implications not only for the PDP but also for the broader political landscape of Nigeria.
FAQs
- Q: What was the ruling by the Abuja Federal High Court regarding the PDP National Convention?
A: The court halted the PDP National Convention scheduled for November 15-16, 2025. - Q: Who called for the National Judicial Council (NJC) to intervene in the matter?
A: Former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Olabode George. - Q: What did Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim allege regarding the ruling APC’s intentions?
A: He alleged a surreptitious agenda to impose a one-party civilian dictatorship in the country. - Q: What is the PDP’s plan regarding the court ruling?
A: The party plans to challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal and proceed with its convention. - Q: Why is the suspension of Umar Damagum significant?
A: It indicates deep divisions within the PDP and follows accusations of incompetence and manipulation.
