Apex court cites constitutional breaches, voids all decisions and strips faction of legitimacy amid deepening party crisis

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has struck down the controversial Ibadan convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), delivering a significant setback to the faction aligned with former presidential aspirant Kabiru Tanimu Turaki.

In a decisive judgment on Thursday, the apex court declared the convention invalid, citing clear violations of the party’s constitution and a failure to follow established legal procedures governing such gatherings.

The Ibadan meeting had intensified the PDP’s internal crisis, with competing factions laying claim to the party’s leadership. The Turaki-backed bloc had emerged from the convention asserting authority, a move swiftly challenged in court by rival stakeholders.

Ruling on the matter, the Supreme Court held that the process leading to the convention was fundamentally flawed, rendering all resolutions and decisions taken at the event null and void. The verdict effectively dismantles the Turaki faction’s claim to legitimacy and reinforces the standing of the opposing leadership recognized by the court.

Legal experts say the ruling underscores the judiciary’s insistence on strict compliance with party constitutions and due process, while also setting a strong precedent for the resolution of intra-party disputes.

Observers warn that the judgment could have far-reaching implications for the PDP, as it continues to battle internal divisions ahead of future elections. Calls for reconciliation are already mounting among party members concerned about further fragmentation.

As of press time, Turaki and his allies have yet to issue an official response, though sources indicate that consultations are ongoing within the camp to determine their next move.