The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was granted the ability to suspend or expel members, including former governor of Rivers State Nyesom Wike, in a ruling handed down on Wednesday by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The ruling was made as Justice James Omotosho presided over the case, which was brought by Wike prior to the 2023 elections.
Wike requested a court order to stop the PDP from disciplining him without following the proper procedures.
PDP lawyer Johnson Usman responded to Wike’s assertions by defending the party’s position and claiming that Wike had not provided sufficient proof to back up his claims.
Usman maintained that party members voluntarily agree to abide by the PDP’s rules and should first explore internal resolution mechanism before taking legal action.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho stated that the PDP has the right to discipline its members, but that any such measures must be in accordance with both the party’s and the country’s constitutions.
He reaffirmed that while not absolute, the fundamental rights guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution remain inviolate.
The PDP has a duty to protect constitutional democracy, and Omotosho concluded by saying that everyone facing disciplinary action deserves a fair hearing.
He stated that it would be against party policy to dismiss Wike without giving him a fair chance to defend himself.
Ada Peter
