The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has removed its National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), following allegations that he compromised the party’s legal position in the ongoing court case surrounding its forthcoming National Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a letter dated October 13 and addressed to the Deputy Registrar of the Federal High Court, the NWC announced the appointment of Chief Chris Uche (SAN) as the party’s new legal representative in the matter. The letter, received by the court on Thursday, was signed by PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum and 13 other NWC members.
According to the NWC, Ajibade’s removal was due to his “compromising conduct” in cases involving the party, necessitating urgent action to protect PDP’s interests ahead of the convention.
Legal Dispute Over Convention Representation
The ongoing legal tussle reached a dramatic point when both Ajibade and Uche appeared before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, each claiming to represent the PDP. The judge subsequently ordered both counsels to submit their documents to determine the party’s legitimate legal representative.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the hearing to October 20, 2025, and instructed both parties to exchange all documents by October 17 for an expedited hearing. He also cautioned them against any actions that might undermine the court’s authority.
In its formal communication to the court—Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025—the NWC clarified that Ajibade’s dismissal was a unanimous decision taken at its 607th meeting on September 30, 2025, citing his “continuing compromised position” in handling sensitive party cases.
The letter read in part:
“We, the undersigned members of the National Working Committee of the PDP, by virtue of Section 29 of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), affirm that the appointment of Chief Chris Uche, SAN, as external solicitor is the unanimous decision of the NWC.
Section 29 (2)(b) empowers the NWC to act on behalf of the National Executive Committee, and its decisions are binding on all organs of the party. The appointment of external solicitors was made following due consideration of the National Legal Adviser’s compromised handling of party-related cases.”
PDP Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Convention
Despite the controversy, the PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) members, including Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor and former National Vice Chairman (South West) Eddy Olafeso, have reaffirmed their commitment to proceed with the Ibadan convention as planned.
They emphasized that preparations are in full swing and that the event will be conducted in line with the PDP Constitution and democratic principles—pending the court’s ruling.
Osadolor, speaking in an interview with Punch on Friday, acknowledged that “counterforces” were working against the convention but maintained that the party would not be derailed.
“Some want the PDP to fail; others insist on due process. However, the Ibadan convention remains fixed, and preparations are ongoing. The court has not stopped the convention, and only the court has the power to do so,” Osadolor stated.
“I appeal to the judiciary not to become a tool for political merchants. The court must allow internal party democracy to thrive, as affirmed by the Supreme Court.”
He called for reconciliation within the party, stressing that no victory over a fellow party member could be considered a true success.
“Those who want the right thing done are not wrong, and those who want the convention to hold are not wrong either. We must find a middle ground that carries everyone along,” he added.
Olafeso: “Nothing Can Stop the Convention”
In a separate interview, Eddy Olafeso expressed optimism about the party’s direction, describing the PDP as resilient and determined to move forward despite internal challenges.
“From the beginning of time, there have always been the good, the bad, and the ugly. While some have sold their souls for immediate gain, others remain steadfast,” he said.
“Our goal has always been to build a better Nigeria. By January, Nigerians will see a new PDP — reformed, focused, and stronger. The convention will hold as planned. It is too late to stop this tide of change.”
He urged dissenting members to drop personal ambitions and join the collective effort to rebuild the party.
“This party has elevated many beyond their competence, yet some remain ungrateful. We are learning our lessons, and tomorrow will be better than today,” Olafeso added.
Wike’s Allies Raise Red Flags
Meanwhile, allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, have voiced concerns over unresolved internal disputes—particularly issues relating to South-South zonal leadership, party structures in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau States, and the micro-zoning formula for the convention.
They have warned that unless the PDP revisits some of its recent resolutions, the convention could face serious legal and political risks.
Already, legal actions have been filed by PDP officials from Imo, Abia, and the South-South Zone seeking to halt the convention process pending further judicial clarification.
Call for Restraint
When contacted, PDP Deputy National Legal Adviser Okechukwu Osuoha urged restraint among party leaders, warning against prejudicial comments and advising all members to maintain the status quo until the court delivers its verdict.
“The court’s order must be respected. Party leaders should refrain from inflammatory statements and allow the judicial process to take its course,” he cautioned.
