The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling, asserting that it affirms Rt. Hon. SKE Udeh-Okoye as the party’s substantive National Secretary.
Supreme Court Upholds Party Supremacy
In a statement by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the party maintained that the verdict reinforces party autonomy, declaring that leadership matters within the PDP are internal affairs beyond judicial interference.
“The judgment settles Udeh-Okoye’s emergence as National Secretary, having been duly nominated, endorsed, and ratified through PDP’s internal mechanisms,” the statement read.
Court Nullifies Rulings Against Anyanwu’s Removal
The dispute arose after Senator Samuel Anyanwu was nominated as the PDP’s Imo State governorship candidate in 2023, prompting the party to replace him as National Secretary. The Supreme Court on Friday nullified lower court rulings that removed Anyanwu, ruling that the Enugu High Court and Court of Appeal overstepped their jurisdiction.
Justice Jamilu Tukur, delivering the lead judgment, emphasized that political parties must govern their affairs unless they violate their constitution or principles of justice. The court also ruled that Aniagu Emmanuel, who filed the case, lacked the legal standing to challenge PDP’s decision.
Judgment Sparks Party Debate
While the PDP hailed the ruling as a victory for party supremacy and democracy, the judgment has fueled internal debate, with factions interpreting it differently to suit their interests.
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