PDP convention: Appeal court urges settlement, adjourns case indefinitely
PDP Elective Convention Dispute Adjourned Indefinitely by Court of Appeal
By Adeola Badru
IBADAN, Nigeria — The Court of Appeal in Ibadan has granted all parties involved in the dispute concerning the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) elective convention permission to pursue an out-of-court settlement. The court adjourned the case indefinitely, encouraging stakeholders to resolve the matter peacefully in light of the upcoming 2027 general elections, as outlined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
A three-member panel, led by Justice Biobele Georgewill, issued the ruling on Wednesday. The court’s decision follows an agreement among legal representatives of the parties to initiate discussions aimed at a resolution.
During the proceedings, Justice Georgewill emphasized the importance of a timely resolution, noting the significance of the INEC election timetable. He encouraged the parties’ attorneys to facilitate a peaceful settlement in the interest of the party.
“The court has granted leave for settlement in the case,” he stated. “The matter has been adjourned sine die to allow all involved to meet and explore resolution options.”
Justice Georgewill requested that the court be formally informed in writing about any decisions reached regarding the terms of settlement.
Counsel for the parties expressed alignment with the court’s position during their statements. In a sidebar interview, Sunday Ibrahim, SAN, indicated that the parties were open to pursuing a settlement. The court subsequently adjourned the case to provide them with the opportunity for reconciliation.
“We make no further comments to avoid prejudicing the settlement discussions,” he said, acknowledging that discussions would include considerations related to the INEC timetable.
Musibau Adetunmbi also remarked on the various motions pending before the appellate court, confirming that they have all been adjourned sine die.
This development follows a previous ruling from the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which invalidated the PDP’s elective convention held in Ibadan and upheld decisions made by the party’s disciplinary committee against specific members.
In contrast, a ruling from Justice Ladiran Akintola of the Oyo State High Court had earlier validated the convention in question.
The case was initiated by Folahan Malomo Adelabi, represented by Musibau Adetunmbi, SAN.
