The Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has postponed its ruling on a preliminary objection challenging its authority in a case aimed at stopping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025.
The lawsuit was filed by PDP member, Folahan Adelabi, who is contesting attempts to halt or disrupt preparations for the convention.
During Friday’s hearing, counsel for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), O. Adeyemi, argued that the High Court lacked jurisdiction because INEC, as a federal agency, answers only to the Federal High Court. He requested that the suit be dismissed, stating, “INEC is a federal agency and falls strictly under the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court. This court cannot entertain this matter.”
However, the claimant’s lawyer, Musibau Adetumbi, SAN, opposed the objection, asserting that the argument infringed on his client’s fundamental rights. Adetumbi cited the 1999 Constitution, emphasizing that it guarantees the right to association and peaceful assembly, including the conduct of political conventions. He also referenced Section 251, noting that INEC does not fall under institutions that automatically remove the State High Court’s jurisdiction.
After considering submissions from both sides, Justice Ladiran Akintola adjourned the ruling on the objection to December 8, 2025. He reiterated that the interim injunction previously granted—restraining the defendants from interfering with preparations for the PDP national convention—remains in force.
The defendants named in the suit include:
- The PDP (1st defendant)
- Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum (2nd defendant)
- Adamawa State Governor and Convention Organising Committee Chairman, Ahmadu Fintiri (3rd defendant)
- INEC (4th defendant)
