Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has reiterated that his directive to maintain the status quo in the lawsuit concerning the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention remains binding and must be strictly observed by all parties involved.
The court emphasized that no individual or group should undertake any action that could undermine or invalidate the court’s ruling. He further cautioned that any attempt at self-help measures would compel the court to issue appropriate sanctions against the offending party.
This statement came in response to a petition from Chris Uche, SAN, representing the PDP, who expressed concerns that the status quo order was hindering his client’s activities and requested an expedited hearing of the case.
During the session on Thursday, the judge assured that the court is committed to delivering a verdict on the matter before the end of October, enabling all parties to understand their legal standing promptly.
He also made it clear that no tactics aimed at delaying the hearing of the suit-which challenges the legitimacy of the PDP’s planned national convention slated for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State-would be tolerated.
“As legal practitioners and custodians of justice, we understand that once a case is initiated and parties have been duly served, no action should be taken that contradicts the ongoing proceedings,” the judge stated.
“The judiciary must not be circumvented; if such attempts occur, the court holds the authority to nullify those actions through consequential orders. It is imperative that we uphold the law for the benefit of all involved.”
“In this particular matter, I guarantee that the judgment will be finalized by the end of October. On the day the ruling is delivered, copies will be provided to all parties. I personally draft my judgments to avoid any unnecessary delays,” the judge added.
Additionally, Justice Omotosho scheduled Monday, October 20, for the substantive hearing of the originating summons filed against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and eight other respondents by three dissatisfied PDP members.
