Appeal Court Dismisses Turaki-Led PDP Faction, Bars INEC from Recognising Ibadan Convention

Appeal Court Dismisses Turaki-Led PDP Faction, Bars INEC from Recognising Ibadan Convention

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has dismissed the appeal filed by the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki‑led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), upholding a Federal High Court ruling that bars the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising the party’s disputed Ibadan National Convention.

A three‑member panel of the appellate court delivered a unanimous judgment on nine harmonised appeals, rejecting arguments that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case. The court emphasized that alleged violations of both the PDP constitution and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria cannot be treated as internal party matters. The court also awarded N2 million in costs against the Turaki faction, describing the appeal as lacking merit. Analysts note that the decision deepens the leadership crisis within the PDP and may influence upcoming party elections and candidate selection processes.

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The legal battle arose from the PDP’s November 15–16, 2025, National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, where the Turaki faction sought to consolidate leadership. Rival factions challenged the convention, claiming violations of party rules and statutory requirements, leading to multiple court interventions. The dispute has been complicated by conflicting judgments from the Federal High Court in Abuja and the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan, with each court providing opposing rulings on the convention’s legality. The Court of Appeal’s latest ruling now reinforces the Abuja High Court judgment, effectively preventing INEC from validating the convention outcomes.

The ruling may push the Turaki faction to consider further legal action, possibly at the Supreme Court, but party observers warn that prolonged litigation could weaken PDP’s cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections. Meanwhile, calls for conciliation and unity talks are growing louder among PDP stakeholders, with leaders urging dialogue to resolve internal disputes and maintain the party’s credibility.

Appeal Court Dismisses Turaki-Led PDP Faction, Bars INEC from Recognising Ibadan Convention