Oyo State High Court Clears PDP to Hold Elective National Convention in Ibadan, Orders INEC to Monitor
In a landmark judgment delivered on November 3, 2025, the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan and presided over by Hon. Justice A. L. Akintola, has officially cleared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to proceed with its Elective National Convention scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The ruling in Suit No. I/1336/2025, filed by Folahan Malamo Adelabi, an aspirant for the position of Deputy National Organizing Secretary, affirmed the legitimacy of the PDP’s scheduled convention and restrained any attempt to hinder or obstruct the party’s internal electoral process.
Justice Akintola specifically ordered the PDP, its agents, officers, or servants not to truncate, frustrate, or disrupt the approved Guidelines, Time Table, and Schedule of Activities leading to the national convention.
INEC Ordered to Monitor and Observe PDP Convention
In a decisive pronouncement, the court directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deploy monitors and observers to oversee the entire exercise in Ibadan. This move aims to ensure transparency, compliance with electoral laws, and legitimacy of the PDP convention.
According to the court, INEC’s monitoring will strengthen the credibility of the process, especially as the party prepares to elect its next crop of national leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.
NCOC Chairman Mandated to Proceed with Arrangements
Justice Akintola further instructed Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State and Chairman of the National Convention Organizing Committee (NCOC), to proceed with all arrangements and logistics relating to the convention without further delay.
With this ruling, the court effectively cleared all legal encumbrances surrounding the exercise, paving the way for a seamless and inclusive convention.
Over 3,000 Delegates Expected
The PDP convention in Ibadan is expected to host over 3,000 delegates, including statutory delegates, governors, National Assembly members, and key party stakeholders from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Party insiders describe the ruling as a “victory for democracy, internal party freedom, and due process,” commending the judiciary for upholding fairness and law in party administration.
Conclusion
With the Oyo State High Court’s ruling, the PDP’s National Convention in Ibadan is now fully set to proceed under lawful supervision and INEC’s observation. This development marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic process, reaffirming the judiciary’s crucial role in protecting party rights and strengthening electoral integrity.
