110
By Oscar Okhifo,
PDP National Chairman Tanimu Turaki has fired back at the Court of Appeal, describing its ruling halting the Ibadan National Convention as an unwarranted intrusion into the party’s internal affairs. He insisted that the judiciary “have no business adjudicating internal PDP affairs,” rejecting a decision widely seen as favouring the faction aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The three‑judge panel of the Appeal Court in Abuja delivered the ruling on Monday, dismissing Turaki’s appeal and upholding the lower court’s order that halted the November 15–16, 2025 convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The judgment also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing the convention’s outcomes. Observers note that the ruling largely favours the Wike-aligned faction.
Reacting to the judgment, Turaki said, “The judges have no business meddling in PDP internal matters. This is an internal party affair, and the courts should not interfere.”
Despite the setback, Turaki’s faction has pledged to explore all legal options, including appealing to the Supreme Court.
The faction insisted, “Our leadership is lawful and legitimate. We urge all PDP members to remain calm and united despite this ruling.”
The leadership tussle in the PDP reflects a deep divide between the Turaki-backed camp, supported by several state governors, and the Wike-aligned group, which initially challenged the Ibadan convention in court.
The Wike faction has welcomed the appellate court ruling, describing it as “a vindication of our stance on the party’s leadership crisis.”
Political analysts warn that prolonged litigation and unresolved leadership disputes could weaken the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.

