By: Daure David
In a move that has further stirred the waters within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the ousted National Secretary, Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu, has filed another baseless lawsuit at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, attempting to stop the PDP from convening its National Working Committee (NWC), National Executive Committee (NEC), and National Conventions, among other critical meetings. The lawsuit names several key defendants, including the PDP itself, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of Police, as well as other security agencies.
This latest legal action is perceived as yet another desperate attempt by Senator Anyanwu to undermine the constitution of the PDP and destabilize its internal processes. Legal experts have described the lawsuit as frivolous, asserting that it is not only a violation of the PDP’s constitution but also an unnecessary proliferation of court processes.
The Nigerian Constitution, in Section 40, guarantees citizens the right to assemble freely and form or belong to political parties, trade unions, or other associations. This right can only be limited under specific conditions outlined in Section 45, such as for public safety or to protect the rights of others, which must be justifiable in a democratic society. According to experts, Anyanwu’s actions cannot justifiably restrict the PDP’s ability to hold its meetings, as long as they comply with the law.
This legal maneuver comes at a time when the matter is already pending before the Supreme Court, following an Appeal Court judgment that had earlier ruled in favor of Rt. Hon. SKE Ude Okoye as the substantive National Secretary of the PDP. Despite the ruling, Anyanwu has shown no willingness to accept the decision, a refusal that has been widely criticized within the party.
Many within the PDP see Anyanwu’s continued attempts to disrupt the party’s activities as not just an act of defiance, but as an affront to the party’s constitution and to the rule of law itself. His actions, including the filing of multiple court cases to frustrate the party’s activities, have been labeled as gross misconduct.
In light of this ongoing disrespect for the party’s internal processes, calls have intensified for the PDP leadership to take decisive action. Political observers argue that expelling Anyanwu from the party is essential to restore order and ensure that the party’s focus remains on the collective interests of its members and the nation at large.
The time has come for the PDP to take a firm stand. The continued tolerance of Senator Anyanwu’s antics undermines the integrity of the party and sends a dangerous message to others who might attempt to exploit the judicial process for personal gain.
As the legal battle continues, the PDP must prioritize its constitution and the rule of law, ensuring that those who seek to destabilize the party from within face appropriate consequences. Only by doing so can the party safeguard its future and maintain its credibility among Nigerians.
