APPEAL COURT VERDICT; VICTORY FOR DEMOCRACY AND THE RULE OF LAW - ORBIH

The National Vice Chairman, South South Zone of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dan Osi Orbih, has described the recent judgment of the Court of Appeal affirming the decision of the Federal High Court against the controversial Ibadan convention as a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and the constitution of the party.

In a statement issued on Monday, Orbih said the appellate court’s ruling has reaffirmed the supremacy of due process and underscored the importance of political parties conducting their internal affairs strictly in line with their constitutions and the provisions of the Electoral Act.

The Court of Appeal had dismissed an appeal filed by Turaki and his group challenging the earlier decision of the Federal High Court which nullified the purported Ibadan convention. The three-member panel of the appellate court, chaired by Justice Mohammed Ambi-Usi Danjuma, unanimously upheld the lower court’s judgment and awarded a fine of N2 million against the appellants.

Reacting to the development, Orbih said the judgment further strengthens the legitimacy of the National Caretaker Working Committee of the PDP led by Senator Umaru Mohammed and Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

He noted that the decision of the court sends a clear message on the need for strict adherence to laid-down rules and democratic principles within political parties.

The PDP chieftain, however, called on party members and all parties involved in the litigation to close ranks and work toward reconciliation in the interest of the party.

According to him, the judgment provides a fresh opportunity for leaders and stakeholders of the party across the country to unite and reposition the PDP for the challenges ahead.

Orbih stressed that the party must seize the moment to strengthen its internal structures and consolidate its position as a strong and credible political platform capable of offering Nigerians effective leadership and a viable alternative in the nation’s political landscape.

He further expressed optimism that with unity and collective commitment, the PDP would continue to grow stronger and remain a formidable force in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Political observers say the ruling could help stabilize the party’s leadership structure and pave the way for renewed efforts to rebuild and reposition the PDP ahead of future electoral contests.