The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has replaced its National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), over alleged compromise in an ongoing court case concerning the party’s forthcoming national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Okay News reports that in a letter dated October 13, the PDP’s leadership informed the Deputy Registrar of the Federal High Court about the appointment of Chris Uche (SAN) as the new legal representative of the party. The letter, received by the court on Thursday, was signed by the PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, and 13 other members of the National Working Committee.
Despite the internal tension, key members of the National Executive Committee (NEC), including Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor and former National Vice Chairman (South West) Eddy Olafeso, have insisted that preparations for the convention will continue while awaiting the court’s decision.
They maintained that all activities ahead of the convention must follow the party’s constitution and democratic principles.
The PDP had earlier resolved during its 101st National Executive Committee meeting on July 24 to hold the elective convention aimed at reforming the party and electing 19 new members of the National Working Committee.
However, loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have reportedly raised objections, citing disagreements over leadership positions in the South-South zone, as well as the micro-zoning arrangement for party offices in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau States.
Those loyal to Wike have filed a lawsuit seeking to stop the convention. The plaintiffs include Hon. Austin Nwachukwu (Imo State PDP Chairman), Hon. Amah Abraham Nnanna (Abia State Chairman), and Turnah Alabah George (South-South Zonal Secretary).
During the court session on Tuesday, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, fixed October 16 for the continuation of the case. A dispute arose when both Ajibade SAN and Uche SAN claimed to represent the PDP, prompting the judge to instruct them to submit written arguments proving their authority.
Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter to Monday, October 20, warning all parties against actions that could undermine the court’s integrity and ordering that all legal documents be exchanged before October 17.
In a letter titled Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025 – Hon. Austine Nwachukwu & 2 Ors vs INEC & 5 Ors (Re: Letter of Instructions), the PDP clarified that Ajibade SAN was removed for allegedly taking a compromised position inconsistent with the party’s interest.
The letter stated, “We, the undersigned members of the National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party, affirm that the letter dated 10th October 2025, signed by the National Chairman appointing Chief Chris Uche SAN as external solicitor, is a unanimous decision of the NWC. This decision reflects our position in the ongoing case before Justice Kolawole Omotosho.”
It added that the decision followed the NWC’s 607th meeting held on September 30, 2025, where Ajibade’s “compromising conduct” was reviewed.
Reacting to the development, Timothy Osadolor said the situation reflects internal resistance within the PDP. He noted that while some party members were trying to obstruct progress, the convention would still hold as planned.
He said, “We can see that there are counterforces against the convention holding for different reasons. Some want the PDP to fail; others insist on strict adherence to rules. However, the Ibadan convention remains fixed. The court has not stopped it, and preparations are ongoing.”
He appealed to the judiciary not to become a tool for political manipulation, stressing that “only the court has the power to stop the convention, but it should allow internal party processes as recognized by the Supreme Court.”
Osadolor further urged party leaders to forgive one another and work together, saying, “Any victory against your fellow party member is no victory at all. Both sides should come down from their high horses and seek reconciliation for the greater good of the party.”
In his reaction, Eddy Olafeso said the PDP remains strong and focused despite challenges. “From the beginning of mankind, there have always been the good, the bad, and the ugly,” he said. “Some members have sold their souls, but many still believe in the PDP’s dream to rebuild Nigeria. By January, Nigerians will see a reformed party ready to lead real change.”
He emphasized that “nothing can stop the convention,” adding that the party is learning from its mistakes and will emerge stronger.
Efforts to reach PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and Ajibade SAN were unsuccessful, as their phones were unreachable.
