The Federal High Court in Abuja has slammed a fine of N1.4 million on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for causing undue delays in a suit challenging the defection of three Kebbi State House of Assembly members to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1389/2024, was filed by the PDP in November 2024 before Justice Inyang Ekwo. The defendants include Hon. Umar Na’amore, Hon. Hashimu Usman Hilinboro, Hon. Yusuf Abubakar Tilli, the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, the Assembly itself, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Though the PDP raised serious allegations of fraud and sought declaratory reliefs, it filed the matter by way of Originating Summons—a procedure intended for straightforward, uncontested issues. The court repeatedly questioned the suitability of this approach, given the complexity of the case.
In addition, the PDP requested multiple adjournments early in the proceedings, citing a lack of preparedness. On March 3, 2025, Justice Ekwo sanctioned the party, ordering it to pay N150,000 to each of the six defendants and an additional N500,000 in administrative costs.
The judge criticized the PDP’s legal team for wasting the court’s time and emphasized the need for diligent preparation. He warned that unnecessary delays would not be tolerated as they could obstruct the fair and timely delivery of justice.
At the next hearing on March 19, the PDP attempted to introduce video evidence. Defence lawyers objected, arguing that the new material warranted a full trial with oral testimony and cross-examination. The court agreed, ruling that the case could no longer proceed under Originating Summons.
Justice Ekwo directed the PDP to file its pleadings within 14 days and serve them on the defendants, noting that the nature of the case had changed significantly.
As of the time of filing this report, the PDP had yet to comply with the court’s directive, despite the lapse of the 14-day deadline. The matter is expected to resume on May 7, when the court may take further action.
