The federal high court in Abuja has declined an ex parte application seeking to restrain Senator Ireti Kingibe from participating in the activities of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Delivering the ruling on Thursday, Justice Peter Lifu held that the application, filed by some ward leaders in Wuse, federal capital territory, could not be granted without first hearing from the lawmaker.
The plaintiffs, reportedly loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, had approached the court to bar Kingibe from parading herself as a member of the party, citing her alleged suspension over anti-party activities.
However, Justice Lifu emphasised the need for fairness, stating that the court must exercise its discretion “judicially and judiciously,” particularly in political matters.
He noted that justice would only be served if all parties were given the opportunity to present their cases on merit.
The court consequently directed the plaintiffs to put the senator on notice and serve all relevant processes on her to enable a proper response.
The matter was adjourned until April 20, 2026, for the hearing of all pending applications.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CV/539/2026, was instituted by Okezuo Anayo and Isaiah Samuel on behalf of themselves and other ward members, with Kingibe listed as the sole defendant.
In their application, the plaintiffs claimed that the senator, who represents the Federal Capital Territory in the Senate, was suspended on March 10, 2026, for alleged misconduct and disregard for the party’s constitution.
They urged the court to restrain her from attending party meetings, performing functions reserved for members, or interfering in ward administration pending the determination of the substantive motion.
They further alleged that despite the suspension, Kingibe continued to hold parallel meetings and issue statements as a party member, actions they described as a “flagrant disregard for the internal mechanism of the party.”
Meanwhile, Abubakar Marshall, counsel to the senator informed the court that a preliminary objection challenging the suit had been filed and duly served on the plaintiffs’ counsel.
