Eddy Olafeso, the former National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has asserted that those who are opposing the party’s national convention are endeavoring to create a one-party state in Nigeria.
Olafeso presented the allegation during a broadcast on Channels Television last night.
In response to the Federal High Court’s injunction preventing the PDP from conducting its national convention set for November 15 to 16 in Ibadan, Olafeso characterized the ruling as “the pinnacle of judicial impropriety.”
“The restraining order issued by the Federal High Court today concerning our planned convention was not unexpected for us.
“A faction is intent on obliterating the party entirely, yet we shall not permit it.” He asserted, “Ultimately, the divine will triumph over malevolence.”
Olafeso asserted that the party would remain undeterred by the ruling, conveying a sense of optimism regarding the forthcoming convention.
“This will not be permitted.” I am invigorated, much like numerous colleagues, that this situation will not be tolerated. “The principles of truth and justice must ultimately triumph,” he asserted.
He further asserted that individuals opposing the PDP harbored hidden agendas intended to undermine the opposition’s strength.
Purported Treachery
Olafeso expressed disapproval of certain former party members for their perceived betrayal of the PDP, particularly after having reaped the benefits it provided.
“They possess their own objectives.” It is not intended for the populace. Such a move serves to solidify a singular political entity, which bodes poorly for the future of our nation.
“Numerous individuals remained obscure until they ascended to the role of governors.” It is perplexing to observe the extent of their insurrection against the very party that elevated them from anonymity to prominence,” remarked the party leader.
“They articulated commitments.” Governor Sule Lamido has expressed his intention to remain within the PDP and contribute to the coalition’s efforts. However, a number of them are now publicly endorsing an alternative party for the upcoming 2027 election,” Olafeso remarked.
On the previous day, Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja issued a restraining order against the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), prohibiting them from conducting or overseeing the scheduled convention in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
The decision was rendered subsequent to a lawsuit initiated by Lamido, who contended that he was deprived of the chance to acquire the nomination form for the national chairmanship role.
Justice Lifu determined that the PDP neglected to disseminate the convention timetable as mandated by law, thereby contravening due process.
He cautioned that disregarding the rule of law might result in chaos, emphasizing that due process is fundamental in a constitutional democracy.
The court has mandated that the PDP refrain from conducting the convention on any date or at any location until it fulfills all legal obligations.
This signifies the second occasion in recent months that the party’s convention has been interrupted by a judicial mandate.
In October, Justice James Omotosho put a hold on the anticipated exercise, awaiting the party’s adherence to its constitution and the Electoral Act.
In the interim, an Oyo State High Court has provisionally permitted the PDP to advance its preparations, although the proceedings were subsequently postponed to enable all involved parties to submit the requisite documentation prior to the main hearing.
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