Supreme Court judgment validates Okoye as National Secretary — PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has hailed the Supreme Court’s judgment affirming Sunday Udeh Okoye as the substantive National Secretary of the party, describing the ruling as a victory for democracy and party supremacy.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Working Committee (NWC) and signed by National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, the PDP emphasized that the apex court’s ruling reinforces the principle that leadership decisions within political parties are internal matters beyond judicial interference.

The judgment effectively settles any contention over Okoye’s position, confirming that his nomination, endorsement, and ratification followed due process as outlined in the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).

The PDP explained that Okoye’s emergence as National Secretary was in line with party regulations. Following the nomination of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the PDP’s governorship candidate for the November 2023 election in Imo State, the NWC, at its 576th meeting on October 11, 2023, directed the South East Zonal Executive Committee to nominate a replacement.

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In response, the South East Zonal Executive Committee convened on October 20, 2023, and unanimously approved Okoye’s nomination. Subsequently, at its 577th meeting on November 7, 2023, the NWC deliberated on and ratified his appointment.

His confirmation was later endorsed by key party organs, including the Board of Trustees (BoT), the South East Zonal Caucus, and the PDP Governors’ Forum.

The decision was officially communicated to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the public.

The party commended the Supreme Court for upholding its autonomy, asserting that the ruling strengthens the internal democratic structure of political parties in Nigeria.

“This judgment is a resounding affirmation of party supremacy and the independence of political organizations in managing their affairs. It is a victory for democracy and reinforces the integrity of our party’s decision-making process,” the statement read.

The NWC called on all PDP members to remain united and work collectively to advance the party’s interests.

With this ruling, the PDP is confident that Okoye’s position as National Secretary stands undisputed, marking a significant moment as the party seeks to strengthen its internal structures ahead of the 2027 political engagements.