Drama, Tension, And Arguments As Lawyers Fight Over PDP Representation Rights

The suit, filed by the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) led by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, is against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The case, presided over by Justice Salim Ibrahim, seeks an order compelling INEC to formally recognise the party’s interim National Working Committee (NWC) headed by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, and to reflect the leadership on its official website.

The plaintiffs are asking the court to direct INEC to update its records to align with the interim NWC allegedly approved by the PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and submitted to the electoral body.

According to the plaintiffs, the list of the Turaki-led interim NWC was officially communicated to INEC through letters dated May 4.

Among the plaintiffs are former Senate President Adolphus Wabara; BoT Secretary and former Niger State Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu; former Information Minister Prof. Jerry Gana; PDP chieftain Olabode George; former Ministers of Women Affairs Maryam Ciroma and Zainab Maina; and BoT/NEC member Dame Esther Uduehi. The PDP is listed as the eighth plaintiff, while INEC is the sole defendant.

However, tension arose in court when two Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) announced appearances for the PDP.

Gordy Uche (SAN) first announced his appearance for all eight plaintiffs, including the PDP.

Shortly after, Sunday Ameh (SAN) also announced his appearance for the PDP, creating confusion over the party’s official legal representation.

The conflicting claims sparked brief tension in the courtroom and momentarily disrupted proceedings.

Justice Ibrahim subsequently adjourned the matter to June 30 to rule on the proper legal representation of the parties involved.