The Court of Appeal in Abuja is currently hearing multiple appeals challenging the legality of the Peoples Democratic Party national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, in November 2025, a case that could determine the legitimacy of the party’s current national leadership.
A three‑member panel, headed by Justice Mohammed Danjuma, is reviewing eight separate appeals arising from conflicting judgments issued by three Federal High Courts and one State High Court.
The appeals focus on questions surrounding the conduct and legality of the convention that produced the PDP’s National Working Committee.
PDP officials are present in court, including Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed, National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, Youth Leader Bala Aboki, National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, and Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Mao Ohuabunwa. Several state chairmen, led by Mr. Austin Nwachikwu, are also in attendance.
The legal dispute over the convention dates back to the weeks before the November 15–16, 2025 gathering, when multiple courts issued conflicting orders on whether the party could hold its national convention.
Despite the uncertainty, the convention proceeded, resulting in the election of 20 NWC members. Among those elected were Tanimu Turaki as National Chairman, Hamza Akuyan Koshe as Deputy National Chairman (North), Daniel Ambrose Woyengikuro as Deputy National Chairman (South), and Arapaja Taofeek Gbola‑Oladejo as National Secretary.
A faction of the PDP aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, boycotted the convention.
The legal challenge revolves around the contradictory court orders issued before the convention. A Federal High Court in Abuja initially restrained the party from holding the event, citing irregularities in state congresses and other compliance issues.
Meanwhile, a High Court in Oyo State issued an order allowing the convention to proceed. Shortly afterward, another Federal High Court in Abuja again restrained the exercise, highlighting additional concerns about the publication of the timetable and other procedural matters.
The appeals currently before the Court of Appeal will determine which of the lower court orders, if any, take precedence.
The appellate court’s final decision is expected to resolve the dispute over whether the Ibadan convention and the Turaki‑led NWC are lawful under Nigerian law and the PDP constitution.
