Court declares factional PDP national convention invalid

The Federal High Court in Ibadan on Friday nullified the Peoples Democratic Party National Convention held on November 15, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The court also barred Kabiru Turaki and others from presenting themselves as national officers of the party, dealing a significant blow to the faction that emerged from the convention.

Despite internal disputes within the party, the PDP went ahead with its highly anticipated two-day 2025 Elective National Convention at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan. Tagged #Ibadan2025, the convention attracted thousands of party delegates, leaders, and supporters.

The court’s decision follows ongoing leadership disputes within the PDP, which have led to competing factions and legal battles over the party’s national leadership and internal processes.

Reacting to the ruling in a statement posted on the PDP’s X handle on Friday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said the PDP is awaiting the final pronouncement of the appellate courts, which it believes will uphold its position.

The statement urged members to remain calm and resolute, insisting there is “absolutely no cause for alarm.” It added that the rebirth movement remains firmly on course.

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“Notwithstanding this judgment, the Kabiru Turaki–led Peoples Democratic Party, which emerged from the Ibadan Convention, remains legally intact and unshaken as we await the authoritative pronouncement of the appellate courts,” the statement said.

“We therefore urge our members to remain resolute and committed, as there is absolutely no cause for alarm. The rebirth movement remains firmly on course.”

As the case progresses to the appellate court, party members and supporters will be closely watching for a definitive ruling that could shape the direction of the PDP ahead of upcoming political engagements.