The Supreme Court of Nigeria, in a unanimous landmark judgment delivered today, Thursday, April 30, 2026, has upheld the suspension of Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade, SAN, Umaru Bature, and Okechukwu Osuoha.
The apex court, in dismissing the appeal, reaffirmed the fundamental legal principle that the judiciary lacks the jurisdiction to interfere in the internal affairs of a political party. This ruling effectively terminates the protracted leadership dispute and restores constitutional order to the party’s administrative hierarchy.
Following this definitive ruling, the Supreme Court held that all actions, decisions, and appointments made by the suspended officials during the period of their suspension are null, void, and of no legal consequence whatsoever. By extension of this “doctrine of nullity,” the court has invalidated the following:
- The Purported National Convention: The event held between March 29 and 30, 2026, is hereby declared an illegality and is non-existent in the eyes of the law.
- Leadership Appointments: The appointment of Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman is nullified. All documents signed, orders given, or representations made by him in that capacity are legally baseless.
- Administrative Decisions: All communiqués, financial authorizations, and committee appointments initiated by the Anyanwu-led faction within the suspension window are voided.
This judgment is a resounding victory for the rule of law and the sanctity of the party’s constitution. It serves as a stern warning that no individual, regardless of their former rank, is above the collective internal mechanisms of the party.
The court’s refusal to assume jurisdiction reinforces the authority of the National Working Committee (NWC) to discipline its members without external interference, provided such actions align with the party’s governing documents.
On this note, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), all financial institutions, and security agencies are required to take immediate note of this judgment. No recognition should be accorded to any individual or group whose purported authority stems from the invalidated March 2026 convention or the illegal leadership of Abdulrahman Mohammed.
The party’s authentic leadership, as recognized prior to these illegalities, remains the sole authorized body to conduct official business, manage assets, and lead the party toward the upcoming electoral cycles.
All loyal party members are to remain calm and united as the Party move forward with the task of institutional restoration.
