Court Battle: PDP govs urge calm amid Monday’s Appeal Court ruling

2026-03-08 - 18:08

By Luminous Jannamike ABUJA — Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party on Sunday appealed for calm among members and supporters as tension builds ahead of a crucial ruling by the Court of Appeal of Nigeria on Monday in the party’s lingering leadership dispute. The expected judgment is seen as a critical moment for the opposition party, which has faced months of internal tensions and is now trying to steady itself and refocus ahead of the 2027 general elections. The appeal for calm came in a statement issued by the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum, chaired by Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State, and signed by the forum’s Director-General, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo. “We stand at a defining moment for our democracy. The judiciary, as the custodian of justice, carries the weight of ensuring fairness, impartiality, and the preservation of national stability. “Whatever the decision may be, the PDP reaffirms its respect for the judicial process and its commitment to peace. “We urge our members, supporters, and indeed all Nigerians to remain calm and disciplined in their reactions to the ruling. Our collective response must reflect maturity and a deep respect for the rule of law. “We call on all party members and leaders to show maximum restraint, remain calm and be law-abiding before, during and after the judgment as leadership will meet immediately to review the judgment and chart the necessary post-judgment line of action. “Democracy thrives on diversity of voices, competition of ideas, and the ability of citizens to choose from credible alternatives. “We therefore call on members aspiring to contest the 2027 general elections to have faith in the party’s platform,” the governors said. Despite the internal disagreements, the governors said the party remained an important pillar in Nigeria’s democratic development. “The PDP has always been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic journey. Our party has governed, opposed, and contributed to the strengthening of institutions that protect the rights of citizens. “Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the PDP remains resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a strong, credible, and people-centred alternative. “No ruling can erase the will of Nigerians for a fair and competitive political system. We are prepared to participate fully in the democratic process, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and respected.” “The judiciary has always remained the only impartial and people-oriented arm of government whose tireless defence of the constitution has ensured the stability of our democratic governance,” the governors added. The appeal court ruling on Monday is expected to shape the next phase of the party’s internal political contest.