The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction aligned with its Interim National Working Committee has welcomed the recent Court of Appeal judgment, describing it as a significant legal victory in the party’s ongoing leadership dispute.
In a statement released shortly after the ruling, the faction argued that the judgment effectively removes the legal basis for the recognition of the caretaker committee reportedly backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
According to party officials, the appellate court found that the issue of recognizing the caretaker committee was not among the substantive matters before the lower court and therefore should not have formed part of its decision. The faction maintained that the ruling has now invalidated the judicial endorsement previously relied upon by the committee.
The group further stated that the court reaffirmed earlier positions regarding the party’s internal affairs, including decisions affecting some suspended officials. It described the outcome as a confirmation of its claims that due process was not followed in the establishment and recognition of the caretaker arrangement.
The leadership crisis within the PDP has persisted for months, with rival camps battling for control of the party structure through both political and legal channels. The disagreement intensified after electoral authorities recognized a caretaker committee backed by Wike’s allies, a move that sparked opposition from other party stakeholders.
Reacting to the judgment, the PDP faction called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review its position and align with what it described as the lawful leadership structure of the party.
Political analysts believe the ruling could reshape the balance of power within the opposition party as preparations continue for future political activities. However, they also note that lingering disagreements among party leaders could result in further legal and political confrontations.
With both sides expected to interpret the verdict in support of their positions, the latest judgment is likely to remain a major talking point in the PDP’s ongoing struggle for leadership and control.
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