Court jalts PDP convention over denial of nomination form to Lamido
The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to suspend its national convention until it makes a chairmanship nomination form available to former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido.
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Peter Lifu ruled that the PDP violated its own constitution and internal guidelines through its conduct. He emphasized that every political party is legally obligated to abide by its constitution to prevent acts of illegality.
Justice Lifu noted that Lamido, in his sworn statement, recounted visiting the party’s national secretariat on October 27, 2025, to purchase the nomination form but was refused access, despite the fact that sales were to remain open until 14 days before the convention.
The court also referenced evidence showing the party’s consensus candidate allegedly remarking that “how we got the form is immaterial,” a statement the judge said reflected an irregular and non-transparent process.
Consequently, the court ordered the PDP to ensure equal opportunity for all eligible members, including Lamido, to contest during the convention. Justice Lifu further ruled that the national convention slated for November 15 and 16, 2025, be suspended until Lamido is allowed to exercise his constitutional rights.
In addition, the court restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from monitoring, supervising, or recognizing any outcome of the convention until the PDP complies with the court’s directives.
