ABUJA: Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Amb. Umar Damagum, has praised the ruling of the Oyo State High Court which cleared the way for the party to hold its 2025 elective national convention, describing it as a “courageous judgment” that strengthens Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Speaking during the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, on Wednesday, Damagum said the court’s decision reaffirmed the party’s constitutional right to conduct its internal democratic process.
This judgment is not just a victory for the PDP, but a triumph for democracy itself,” he stated. It confirms that our great party has fulfilled all legal requirements to proceed with the national convention.
He commended Justice A.L. Akintola for what he called an act of judicial courage in a period “marked by intimidation and moral compromise, adding that the court’s position has restored confidence in the rule of law.
Damagum noted that his leadership had prioritized reconciliation over retribution since assuming office, stressing the need for unity and stability within the PDP after divisions that followed the 2023 general elections.
“Every compromise I made was for the sake of the party. I chose to protect the institution of the PDP that will outlive all of us, he said.
The PDP helmsman urged the incoming National Working Committee (NWC) to lead with integrity and courage, build consensus, and revitalize the party’s structures across the federation.
Our meeting today is meant to provide strategic direction toward the convention and resolve all pending issues. I call for sincerity, unity of purpose, and commitment to our collective future, Damagum added.
On his part, BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, appealed to members to sheath their swords and embrace peace for the overall good of the party. He reaffirmed the board’s neutrality, pledging that it would focus on mediating disputes and strengthening internal cohesion.
Others present included BoT Secretary Ahmed Makarafi, Prof. Jerry Gana, Senator Ben Obi, Josephine Anenih, Zainab Maina, and members of the Umar Damagum-led NWC.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan had earlier granted an interim order authorizing the PDP to proceed with its elective national convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025.
In the ruling, Justice Akintola directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to attend and monitor the exercise, pending determination of the substantive motion before the court.
The interim order followed an ex parte motion filed by Folahan Adelabi, who had sought to restrain the PDP, its acting chairman, and the convention planning committee from altering or disrupting the approved timetable and guidelines for the convention.
With the court’s clearance, the PDP leadership is now set to proceed with preparations for what many see as a defining moment in the opposition party’s bid to reposition itself ahead of future national elections.
