The Court of Appeal of Nigeria sitting in Abuja on Monday delivered a landmark ruling that is expected to deepen the ongoing leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The appellate court upheld the suspension of four national officers, including the party’s former National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who is currently part of the caretaker committee established by one faction of the party. The others affected by the ruling are the PDP National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade; Deputy National Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha; and National Organising Secretary, Umaru Bature.
In addition to confirming the suspensions, the Court of Appeal nullified the outcome of the PDP’s 2025 National Convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, a decision that has left the party without a clear leadership structure ahead of forthcoming political activities.
The appellate court affirmed the earlier rulings of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, which had found that the Ibadan convention violated statutory provisions, including the Electoral Act and internal party procedures, particularly regarding notification to the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Justice James Omotosho, whose judgment was upheld, had ruled that the convention was conducted in disregard of both the law and the PDP constitution, making its outcomes legally invalid.
Speaking on the suspension, the Court of Appeal noted that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party acted within its internal disciplinary powers, and that Anyanwu and the other officers could not invalidate the action. This effectively maintains the caretaker committee set up by one faction, even as rival camps within the party continue to contest leadership.
With both the suspension of Anyanwu and colleagues upheld and the Ibadan convention nullified, the PDP faces a leadership vacuum, leaving stakeholders and members in uncertainty over the party’s direction. Political analysts say the ruling could further deepen internal divisions, undermining the party’s unity ahead of upcoming electoral contests.
“This judgment confirms that internal party disputes must adhere strictly to the constitution, but it also leaves PDP without a functioning leadership structure,” said one political analyst. “The party now risks appearing rudderless at a time when strong leadership is crucial.”
The ruling marks a significant moment in the PDP’s internal struggle, as factions scramble to assert control while the party’s legitimacy and organizational stability remain under judicial scrutiny
