Dare Babalola
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vowed to press on with its convention plans despite a court ruling blocking the event
Recall that a Federal High Court in Abuja had earlier asked the party to halt the November 15 and 16 elective National Convention slated for Ibadan, Oyo State.
Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the matter, barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from receiving, publishing, or recognising any outcome from the proposed convention until the PDP meets all statutory requirements.
However, PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, insisted that preparations for the convention would continue, despite the court ruling, in a statement on Friday.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is appalled by the judgement of the Federal High Court Abuja, presided over by Honorable Justice Kolawole Omotosho today, describing it as an assault on Nigeria’s democratic process.”
:However, the PDP states that the judgment of the court does not vitiate its ability to proceed with the processes and activities towards the National Convention to elect new National Officers to pilot the affairs of the Party for the next four years.
“Our Party notes the recent judgement of the Supreme Court which affirms the supremacy of a political party in the management of its internal affairs.
“The PDP therefore charges its members, Chapter and Organs to remain steadfast and focused on preparations towards the holding of the National Convention of our Party,” the statement read.
Ologunagba added that as a party committed to the rule of law, the party “has accordingly directed its lawyers to take immediate action to appeal this judgment in our unwavering determination to uphold, defend and promote multi-party democracy in our country”.
