Court of Appeal Verdict: A Chance for PDP Revival, Says Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed his approval of the Court of Appeal's judgment, which declared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convention held in Ibadan on Nov. 15 and Nov. 16, 2025, as void, citing the party's failure to comply with a subsisting court order. This ruling was made by the appellate court on Monday, emphasizing the party's wrongdoing in proceeding with the convention despite the existing court directive.

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The Court of Appeal's decision was rooted in the party's non-compliance with conditions set by the Federal High Court, prompting Wike to describe the ruling as a triumph for the rule of law. He urged party members to put aside their personal interests and egos, and instead, work towards reconciliation and an end to litigation.

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Wike cautioned that taking the matter to the Supreme Court could have detrimental effects on the party, particularly with party primaries scheduled for April and May, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation. He warned that pursuing the case further would only serve to harm the party, which he believed was counterproductive to the members' stated love for the party.

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Wike viewed the judgment as an opportunity for the party to reconcile and forge a new path forward, urging aggrieved members to return and work together to salvage the party. He encouraged them to abandon their personal interests and ego, and instead, focus on the collective good of the party.

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The minister noted that the court's dismissal of several appeals with significant costs highlighted the importance of adhering to statutory provisions, the Electoral Act, and the party's constitution. He emphasized that breaches of these laws meant the issue could no longer be treated as an internal party matter, making judicial intervention inevitable.

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According to Wike, the ruling not only nullified the Ibadan convention but also confirmed that the tenure of the previous party officers had expired, creating a need for new leadership. He stated that the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led National Caretaker Committee remained the legally recognized body managing the party's affairs, thereby preventing a leadership vacuum.

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Wike confirmed that preparations were underway for a fresh National Convention, scheduled to take place on March 29 and 30 in Abuja, marking a new beginning for the party. This convention aimed to bring the party together and set a new course for its future.