The Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) has described the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja halting its planned elective National Convention as an assault on Nigeria’s democratic process.
The Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba said in a statement that Friday’s judgment by Justice Kolawole Omitosho did not however affect its ability to go ahead with the processes leading to the convention, asking members nationwide to remain steadfast.
Ologunagba said the recent Supreme Court judgment allows parties to take charge of management of their intern affairs.
The PDP convention scheduled to take place between November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital is expected to elect new members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and amend the party constitution.
The statement titled; “PDP planned National Convention not vitiated by court” said the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) is appalled by the judgment of the Federal High Court Abuja, presided over by 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
“Nevertheless, the PDP as the leading opposition party in Nigeria committed to the Rule of Law 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.”