Rivers PDP Defends Local Government Elections Amid Court Drama

The Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has shed light on its decision to proceed with state, local government, and ward congresses, despite a High Court ruling in Port Harcourt voiding the process. According to the party, a counter-order from the Federal High Court in Abuja permitted the exercise, creating a legal stalemate.

In a statement issued by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Dr. Kenneth Yowika, the PDP asserted that Justice Peter Lifu of the Abuja Federal High Court had barred security agencies, electoral bodies, and other entities from interfering with the congresses. This ruling, they argued, provided the legal backing to continue.

Conflicting Court Decisions

While Justice Jumbo Stephens of the Port Harcourt High Court ruled against the congresses on Monday, the PDP remains unfazed. Dr. Yowika assured party members that legal experts are already reviewing the judgment, with plans to file an appeal swiftly.

“The exercise was conducted within the boundaries of the law, as instructed by Justice Lifu in Abuja,” Dr. Yowika stated. He emphasized that party members at all levels should remain calm and united as the leadership works to resolve the issue.

Congress Timeline and Legal Foundations

The congresses, held between July and August 2024, resulted in the election and inauguration of representatives across various levels. Dr. Yowika highlighted Justice Lifu’s July ruling, which granted permission for the congresses to proceed under strict adherence to PDP guidelines and an adjusted timetable.

The Abuja court also specified that only individuals who had obtained official nomination forms were eligible to participate. This provision was aimed at ensuring transparency and fairness in the process.

Key Legal Details

The Abuja ruling stemmed from an ex parte application filed by six PDP members in Rivers State. Represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria K.O. Njemanze, the plaintiffs sought to prevent interference with the congresses.

In his ruling, Justice Lifu ordered the acting PDP National Chairman, Iliya Damagum, alongside other national officers, to oversee the exercise in line with party rules. The court’s certified order, dated July 23, 2024, reinforced these directives, restricting the participation of any individual who failed to comply with the stipulated requirements.

Ongoing Legal Battle

Despite the Port Harcourt court’s decision to nullify the congresses, the PDP insists it acted within its rights based on the Abuja ruling. Legal analysts anticipate that the appeal process will be pivotal in resolving the conflicting judgments and determining the legitimacy of the congress outcomes.

Dr. Yowika expressed confidence in the party’s legal position, urging members to focus on unity and progress.

The situation underscores the growing complexities of legal disputes within political parties, raising questions about governance and the judiciary's role in electoral processes.