Supreme Court fixes April 22 for hearing in PDP leadership crisis appeals

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has fixed April 22 for the hearing of appeals arising from the leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party.

The appeals were filed by a faction of the party led by former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, challenging earlier judgments of the Court of Appeal delivered on March 9.

A five-member panel of the apex court, headed by Justice Mohammed Garba, fixed the date on Tuesday after granting an application for accelerated hearing.

The court also shortened the time for parties to file their legal briefs, directing respondents to submit responses within five days, while the appellants were given two days to file any reply.

Background to the Dispute

The appeals stem from decisions of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria, which upheld earlier rulings of the Federal High Court restraining the PDP from conducting its planned national convention pending compliance with statutory provisions, including the Electoral Act and internal party regulations.

The Federal High Court judgments were delivered by Justice James Omotosho and Justice Peter Lifu following suits filed by aggrieved party members, including former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido.

Political Heavyweights Present

Several prominent political stakeholders were present during Tuesday’s proceedings, including Seyi Makinde, alongside Turaki and other party leaders.

The Supreme Court’s decision is expected to play a crucial role in determining the future leadership direction of the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.