A High Court sitting in Ado Ekiti has issued a restraining order barring the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from proceeding with its planned Local Government and State Congresses in Ekiti State.
Justice E.B. Omotoso granted the interim injunction while ruling on a Motion Ex Parte (No. HAD/424M/2025) filed by Hon. Afolabi Adedeji on May 6, 2025.
The defendants in the suit include the PDP, its Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun, National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, Ekiti State Caretaker Chairman Dare Adeleke, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In his ruling, Justice Omotoso ordered all parties to maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of the substantive Motion on Notice, which is scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
In a notable directive, the court permitted that key PDP officials be served the court processes through WhatsApp, alongside physical posting at the PDP state office in Ado Ekiti.
“Leave is hereby granted to the claimant/applicant to serve the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th defendants the Originating Process by substituted means — by pasting it on the wall of the 1st defendant’s office… In addition… via WhatsApp,” the court ordered.
Hon. Adedeji, in his application, argued that only individuals who properly obtained election forms and were duly elected in the March 15, 2025 ward congress should serve as delegates in any further party elections. He sought an injunction to prevent the PDP or its officials from recognising any contrary delegate list.
The case reflects rising tensions within the Ekiti chapter of the PDP as internal wrangling continues over the conduct and authenticity of the party’s congress processes.
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