Introduction to the Crisis
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a significant step by urging the Federal High Court in Abuja to order the removal of four lawmakers representing Osun State at the National Assembly (NASS) for defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move is based on the party’s belief that the lawmakers’ actions are in violation of the constitution, specifically Section 68(1)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The Lawmakers in Question
The lawmakers involved include two senators and two members of the House of Representatives. They are Senators Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East) and Olubiyi Oluwole Fadeyi (Osun Central), as well as Omirin Olusanya (Atakumosa East/West and Ilesa East/West Federal Constituency) and Taofeek Ajilesoro (Ife Central/East/North and South Federal Constituency). Each of these lawmakers has been sued in separate suits filed by the PDP’s counsel, Rapheal Oyewole, on August 20.
Details of the Suits
The suits, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1725/2025, FHC/ABJ/CS/1728/2025, FHC/ABJ/CS/1727/2025, and FHC/ABJ/CS/1726/2025, name the respective lawmakers as the 1st defendant in each case. The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives are listed as the 2nd defendants in the suits against the senators and the House members, respectively. Additionally, the National Assembly, its Clerk, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are named as the 3rd to 5th defendants in the suits.
Previous Similar Actions
This is not the first time the Osun State PDP chapter has taken such action. Recently, the party dragged Oluwole Oke, the lawmaker representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of the state, before Justice Emeka Nwite over his defection to the APC. These actions indicate the PDP’s commitment to upholding the constitutional provisions regarding party defections.
Developments in Ogun State APC
In a related development, the State Working Committee (SWC) of the APC in Ogun State has ratified the suspension of Senator Gbenga Daniel and Kunle Folarin over alleged anti-party activities by their respective wards. This decision was made in a meeting presided over by the state Chairman, Yemi Sanusi, on Tuesday, according to a statement by the party’s Director of Publicity, Olufemi Nuberu.
Conclusion
The actions taken by the PDP against the defecting lawmakers and the suspension of party members in Ogun State APC highlight the ongoing political maneuverings and tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape. These moves are likely to have significant implications for the political parties involved and the country’s political stability. As the legal proceedings unfold, it will be crucial to observe how the courts interpret the constitutional provisions regarding party defections and anti-party activities.
FAQs
- Q: What is the basis of the PDP’s legal action against the lawmakers?
A: The PDP is acting based on Section 68(1)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which deals with the defection of lawmakers from one party to another. - Q: How many lawmakers are involved in the PDP’s legal action?
A: Four lawmakers from Osun State are involved, including two senators and two members of the House of Representatives. - Q: What is the current status of the suits filed by the PDP?
A: The suits are yet to be assigned to a judge. - Q: What action has the Ogun State APC taken against its members?
A: The party has ratified the suspension of Senator Gbenga Daniel and Kunle Folarin over alleged anti-party activities.
