PDP Chieftain, Bode George
Former Deputy National Chairman (South) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has condemned the recent court order stopping the party’s planned national convention, describing the decision as a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday, restrained the PDP from holding its national convention slated for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan.
The ruling stemmed from a suit claiming that the party failed to comply with the 1999 Constitution, the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and its own constitution in preparing for the event.
According to the judge, the PDP did not properly conduct state congresses before setting out to elect new national officers, a situation he said violated internal democratic principles.
The decision effectively halts preparations for the opposition party’s leadership renewal, sparking fresh concerns about unity and readiness ahead of future national polls.
Reacting to the ruling, Chief George described the judgment as “shocking” and “a threat to democratic stability,” warning that it could open the floodgates for judicial intrusion into political party affairs.
“This judgment will consume this country. It is time the judge removed his wig and gown and joined politics,” George declared in a statement.
He urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the National Judicial Council (NJC) to intervene, calling the ruling an “unjustifiable interference” that could destabilize the political system.
“Judges are not politicians. Their duty is to interpret the law, not to meddle in party administration,” he emphasized.
George also questioned the basis of the judgment, noting that INEC monitored all PDP congresses nationwide and did not raise any objection or report irregularities.
“INEC is not complaining. The judge did not invite INEC officials. So why is he complaining? Does he have political interest?” he asked pointedly.
The PDP stalwart reminded the public that the party, since its founding in 1998, has maintained a tradition of adhering to due process in organizing its congresses and conventions. He warned that undermining party autonomy could weaponize the judiciary against political stability in Africa’s largest democracy.
He urged party members to remain calm and rely on lawful channels to challenge the decision.
The PDP is expected to explore legal avenues in the coming days as it works to defend its internal processes and refocus ahead of upcoming elections.
