Drama In Court As Two Lawyers Clash Over Right To Represent PDP

A mild drama unfolded in court on Friday when two senior lawyers separately announced appearances for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Federal High Court in Abuja for the same matter.

The suit was filed by the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), led by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Naija News reports that the case, presided over by Justice Salim Ibrahim, seeks a court order directing INEC to officially recognise the interim National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, headed by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, and to reflect the leadership on its official website.

The suit was jointly filed by the PDP and members of its Board of Trustees, who are asking the court to compel INEC to update its records in line with the interim NWC allegedly submitted by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).

According to the plaintiffs, the list containing members of the Turaki-led interim NWC was formally forwarded to INEC through letters dated May 4.

Among those listed as plaintiffs are former Senate President Adolphus Wabara; BoT Secretary, and former Niger State Governor, Muazu Babangida Aliyu; former Information Minister, Prof. Jerry Gana; and PDP stalwart, Olabode George.

Also joined in the suit are former Ministers of Women Affairs, Maryam Ciroma and Zainab Maina, as well as BoT and NEC member, Dame Esther Uduehi. The PDP is listed as the eighth plaintiff, while INEC remains the sole defendant.

However, drama ensued on Friday when Gordy Uche (SAN), announced his appearance for all eight plaintiffs, including the PDP.

Also, Sunday Ameh (SAN) rose to announce his appearance for the PDP, creating uncertainty over who officially represented the party.

The conflicting representations caused noticeable tension in court and briefly disrupted proceedings.

Justice Ibrahim subsequently adjourned the suit to 30th June to rule on the application for proper representation of parties in the suit.