Court voids Ibadan PDP convention, bars Turaki-led faction

The Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan on Friday invalidated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention held on November 15, 2025, delivering a major setback to the faction that emerged from the exercise.

In its ruling, the court nullified the convention and restrained Kabiru Turaki and others from parading themselves as national officers of the party, effectively halting the operations of the group pending further legal resolution.

Despite deep-seated internal disputes, the PDP had proceeded with the two-day Elective National Convention at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan. Branded #Ibadan2025, the event drew thousands of delegates, party leaders and supporters from across the country.

The judgment is the latest development in a series of legal battles arising from the PDP’s protracted leadership crisis, which has splintered the party into rival factions contesting control of its national structure.

Reacting to the ruling, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said the party would seek redress at the appellate courts.

In a statement posted on the party’s official X handle on Friday, he urged members to remain calm, insisting that the judgment does not spell the end for the Ibadan Convention faction, adding that the party is confident that the appellate courts will uphold its position.

“Notwithstanding this judgment, the Kabiru Turaki–led Peoples Democratic Party, which emerged from the Ibadan Convention, remains legally intact and unshaken as we await the authoritative pronouncement of the appellate courts,” the statement read.

He further reassured members that “there is absolutely no cause for alarm,” adding that the party’s rebirth movement remains firmly on course.

As the dispute moves to the appellate stage, political observers and party faithful will be watching closely, with the outcome expected to significantly influence the PDP’s direction ahead of future political engagements.