Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using the judiciary as a political weapon to destabilise opposition parties and weaken Nigeria’s democracy.
Reacting to a Federal High Court ruling that halted the PDP’s planned national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, George described the judgment delivered by Justice Omotosho as “an aberration,” insisting that courts have no jurisdiction over internal party affairs.
Addressing journalists in Lagos on Wednesday, the PDP stalwart warned that the ruling could trigger political instability if not addressed. He urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and the National Judicial Council (NJC) to intervene, questioning the basis of the court’s decision.
“What power does Justice Omotosho have to order PDP not to hold its National Convention? Has the judiciary gone to the dogs? INEC witnessed all our congresses. INEC is not complaining. The judge did not even call INEC to verify facts. Why is he complaining? Does he have a political interest?” George queried.
He cautioned that judicial interference in party affairs could endanger the nation’s democratic order, recalling how similar interference contributed to the crisis that engulfed the Western Region in 1962.
“This is how the crisis in the Western Region started in 1962, which consumed the First Republic and led to the civil war. To continue along that path in 2025 is absolute lunacy,” he warned.
George further alleged that the controversial ruling emboldened security operatives to invade the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja, acting in concert with a minority faction.
“What a travesty of justice. This illegal act by security agents is a dangerous affront to internal democracy and the rule of law,” he said, condemning the deployment of armed personnel to the headquarters of a major political party.
He described the incident as a “direct assault on democratic values and the freedom of political association guaranteed by the Constitution,” warning that it threatens national stability and damages Nigeria’s image before the international community.
The PDP chieftain called on the Presidency, National Security Adviser, and heads of security agencies to investigate the incident and withdraw all personnel involved.
“The sanctity of political institutions must be preserved. Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. What we need now is restraint, dialogue, and a recommitment to democratic conduct,” he said.
George also accused the APC-led government of diverting attention from insecurity by targeting opposition parties.
“Instead of going after terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, cattle rustlers, and abductors, the APC administration is doing everything illegal, unlawful, and shameful to destabilise opposition parties,” he alleged.
He vowed that the PDP would resist any attempt to undermine democracy through judicial manipulation.
“PDP remains committed to peace, unity, and the defence of democracy. We will not be intimidated,” George declared.
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