PDP Raises Concern Over Repeated Assignment of Cases To Same Judges
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised concern over the repeated assignment of its cases to Justices James Omotosho, Peter Lifu, and Mohammed Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division.
In a petition addressed to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, FCT, Justice John Tsoho, dated November 19 and signed by the party’s National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, the PDP expressed displeasure over the apparent fixation on the three judges in matters either filed by the party or brought against it.
The petition cited recent rulings as examples.
Justice Omotosho, in a case brought by Austin Nwachukwu, Amah Nnanah and Turnah George, the Imo, Abia State Chairmen and South-South Zonal Secretary of the PDP, restrained the party from proceeding with its national elective convention, citing non-compliance with the party’s constitution.
Similarly, Justice Lifu directed the PDP to suspend the convention until Sule Lamido, former Jigawa State governor, obtained a nomination form to contest for the office of National Chairman, agreeing with Lamido that he was unfairly excluded.
Despite these rulings, the PDP went ahead with the convention, citing a court order by Justice Ladiran Akintola of the Oyo State High Court.
The conflicting decisions have contributed to a factional split within the party, with rival blocs loyal to the PDP Governors Forum and the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, both claiming legitimate leadership.
The petition reads in part, “It is of great concern to our party that all matters filed in the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, either for or against our party over the past few years, have consistently been assigned to Justices James Omotosho, Peter Lifu and Mohammed Abdulmalik, despite the presence of up to nine other judges in the division.
“Several party members have expressed concern over this situation. These courts are increasingly viewed as ‘courts of particular concern’ regarding matters affecting the PDP. Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done by reasonable members of society, including our party members.”
The PDP urged the Chief Judge that, going forward, no cases involving the party should be assigned to the three judges, noting that “justice is rooted in trust and integrity.”
The petition concluded by affirming the party’s confidence in the overall integrity of the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, while reiterating its fears regarding the highlighted judges.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
