Court Delays Hearing on Suit Seeking Removal of Ganduje as APC Chairman”

In a legal twist that has gripped the political landscape, the Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of a suit aimed at removing Abdullahi Ganduje as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) until July 5.

The suit, filed by members of the North Central APC Forum led by Saleh Zazzaga, challenges the legitimacy of Ganduje’s chairmanship, arguing that his appointment violated the party’s constitution. Ganduje, who assumed office on August 3, 2023, hails from Kano State in the North West geopolitical zone, contrary to the plaintiffs’ contention that the position should be occupied by someone from Nasarawa State in the North Central zone.

The plaintiffs seek an injunction restraining Ganduje from acting as APC Chairman and request that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) disregard all actions taken by the party under his leadership, including congresses and nominations.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, Justice Inyang Ekwo granted an adjournment to allow the plaintiffs to respond to a counter-affidavit filed by Ganduje’s legal team challenging the suit’s competence. The delay was accepted following a request from Benjamin Davou, counsel for the plaintiffs, who cited the need to review the new filings.

Raymond Asikeni, SAN, representing Ganduje, did not oppose the adjournment, leading to the court scheduling the next hearing for July 5.

The plaintiffs argue that Ganduje’s appointment was invalid under Article 31.5(1) of the APC constitution and insist that only a democratically elected member from Nasarawa State can rightfully hold the office of APC Chairman, in accordance with party rules.

The case also involves the APC and INEC as defendants, highlighting the broader implications of the court’s decision on the party’s internal governance and electoral processes.

As political tensions simmer amidst legal maneuverings, the outcome of the July 5 hearing promises to shape the future leadership dynamics within the ruling party, with potential repercussions extending across Nigeria’s political spectrum.