 in Ekiti State proceeded with its local government and state congresses on Wednesday, despite an interim court order barring the exercise.){kind=link}
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State proceeded with its local government and state congresses on Wednesday, despite an interim court order barring the exercise.
An Ekiti State High Court in Ado Ekiti, presided over by Justice E. B. Omotosho, had earlier in the day issued an order restraining the party from holding the congresses, following an ex parte motion filed by a PDP member, Afolabi Adedeji, under suit number HAD/424M/2025.
The judge granted the interim relief and adjourned the matter to May 14, 2025, for a hearing on the motion on notice.
Defendants listed in the suit include the PDP, Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun, National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, Ekiti Caretaker Chairman Dare Adeleke, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Adedeji requested the court to stop the defendants and their representatives from recognising any delegates who did not obtain nomination forms or take part in the congress process, insisting that only delegates elected on March 15, 2025, should be deemed valid.
He also sought the court’s permission to serve originating processes by substituted means, including pasting on the PDP’s state secretariat and through WhatsApp messages to officials residing outside the court’s jurisdiction.
Justice Omotosho granted the application and directed all involved parties to maintain the current status until the case is heard on May 14.
Despite the court’s directive, the PDP caretaker committee in the state declared the congress a success.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti, Chairman Dare Adeleke lauded the peaceful atmosphere and efficient organisation of the event.
Adeleke expressed appreciation to the party’s National Working Committee, INEC, and security agencies for their cooperation.
He praised the Electoral Panel led by Dr. Eddy Olafeso, describing their coordination as commendable.
According to Adeleke, “The congress started early at 8 a.m. and was completed by noon without any disruption.
The orderly conduct shows the level of commitment and preparation by the organising committee.”