A High Court in Katsina has dismissed a lawsuit filed by 7,095 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aspirants challenging the conduct of the party’s congresses in the state.
The case, spearheaded by a faction led by Dr. Mustapha Inuwa, alleged that the congresses at ward, local government, and state levels were conducted unfairly, excluding some members and violating democratic principles and the party’s constitution.
Represented by counsel Mustapha Shitu-Mahuta, the plaintiffs contended that the congresses did not provide a level playing field for all members. They requested the court to nullify the congresses and order fresh, inclusive elections in line with the PDP constitution.
Defence counsel Isaac Nwachukwu argued that the congresses were internal party matters and beyond the jurisdiction of the court. He maintained that the court could only preside over disputes arising from primary elections and urged the court to dismiss the case.
Justice Abbas Bawale upheld the defence’s argument, citing precedents from the Appeal Court and Supreme Court. He ruled that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter, as it pertained to the internal affairs of the PDP.
“The court has no jurisdiction to entertain matters related to party congresses, as it only has authority over disputes arising from primary elections,” Justice Bawale said. He struck out the case but noted that the plaintiffs retain the right to appeal within 90 days.
Following the ruling, plaintiffs’ counsel Mustapha Shitu-Mahuta expressed intent to appeal the decision. “We will take this matter to the Court of Appeal,” he affirmed.
The judgment marks a significant moment in the internal power tussles within the Katsina PDP, underscoring the legal boundaries of judicial intervention in party affairs.
