The Federal High Court in Abuja is set to deliver a crucial ruling today in a legal dispute seeking to bar Senator Ireti Kingibe from participating in all activities of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following her alleged suspension from the party.
Justice Peter Odo Lifu is expected to rule on an ex-parte application filed by aggrieved party members from the Wuse Ward in Abuja. The application seeks an interim injunction restraining Kingibe from presenting herself as a member of the ADC pending the determination of a substantive motion.
The dispute stems from a decision by the Wuse Ward Executive Committee, which reportedly suspended the senator on 10 March over allegations of anti-party activities, gross misconduct and alleged disregard for the party’s constitution. The suspension was said to have been ratified by a two-thirds majority of ward leaders.
The plaintiffs in the case—Okezuo Godfrey Anayo and Isaiah Ojonugwa Samuel—filed the suit on behalf of themselves and other ward members. The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CV/539/2026, names Senator Kingibe as the sole defendant.
Represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Kolawole Olowookere, the plaintiffs are asking the court to restrain the senator from attending party meetings, performing functions reserved for ADC members, or representing the party in any capacity.
They further requested that the court prevent her from interfering in the administration of the Wuse Ward, including access to its register and internal operations.
According to court filings, the plaintiffs allege that despite being formally notified of her suspension, Kingibe has continued to convene parallel meetings, issue statements as a party member and allegedly use her security personnel to intimidate members of the ward executive.
They argue that her actions undermine the internal disciplinary mechanisms of the party and constitute a breach of its constitution. The plaintiffs also maintain that due process was followed in effecting her suspension.
Justice Lifu had previously fixed 1 April for ruling after hearing arguments from the applicants. The outcome of the case is expected to determine whether the interim relief sought will be granted, pending further proceedings.
The ruling could have broader implications for party discipline and internal governance within the ADC, particularly as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of future elections.
