Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has temporarily suspended proceedings in a lawsuit involving rival factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The suit, filed by supporters of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, targets the leadership of the Turaki-led faction of the party.
During Friday’s resumed hearing, the defence counsel, Chris Uche, SAN, withdrew an earlier application for a stay of proceedings. He explained that a record of appeal has already been filed at the Court of Appeal, arguing that the High Court cannot proceed while the appeal is pending. Plaintiffs’ counsel, Onyeachi Ikpeazu, SAN, opposed the indefinite adjournment, noting the defence’s application lacked supporting facts.
In her ruling, Justice Abdulmalik partly agreed with the defence’s legal argument and adjourned the case to February 20, pending the Court of Appeal’s determination. The development highlights ongoing tensions within the PDP as rival factions continue their legal battles over party leadership.
