The order restraining the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, from announcing, publishing, and recognizing the results of the ward congresses conducted on February 1, 2020, has been vacated.
This follows the expiration of the statutory 14 days life span of the interim order and the failure of the claimants to apply for an extension.
Also Read: Bayelsa Governor condemns attack on Odili’s residence
The order issued by the Edo State High Court sitting in Ekpoma on February 6, 2020, followed an application by three members of the party; Eruanga Sylvanus, Victor Idiakheoa, and Jide Obalowoshe, who contended that the PDP guidelines were not duly followed in the conduct of the congress.
At the resumed hearing on Monday before Justice J.O Okeaya-Inneh, counsel for the PDP, Fred Orbih (SAN), urged the court to vacate the order restraining the PDP from going ahead with its congresses since the claimants’ lawyer had failed to file for an extension of the interim order.
He further argued that the matter is time bound and quite urgent since the party has to prepare for the upcoming governorship election in the State.
Also Read: El-Zakzaky’s lack of access to his doctors stalls trial
Counsel for the first and third claimants, Dele Igbenedion, opposed the request to vacate the order, arguing instead that the court grants accelerated hearing so that the issues canvassed before the court can be well addressed.
After the submissions by both parties, Justice Okeaya-Inneh held that since the claimants’ lawyer had failed to file for an extension of the interim injunction after the stipulated 14 days as required by the law, the order has been abated.
Meanwhile, counsel for the second claimant said her client has withdrawn from the case.
The matter has now been adjourned till March 11, 2020, for the hearing of motions on notice.
