According to AIT, The Federal High Court in Abuja has halted proceedings in the three lawsuits against former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Uche Secondus and two others due to absence of the presiding judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo for official business.
Three PDP members from Rivers State filed separate lawsuits against Secondus, ex-Rivers Governor Celestine Omehia, and former House of Representatives Deputy Speaker, Austin Opara.
The controversy erupted on April 5 when Justice Ekwo issued an interim order restraining Secondus, Omehia, and Opara from participating in any PDP NEC or Board of Trustees gatherings pending the resolution of the lawsuits.
The plaintiffs argued that the continued participation of these leaders could potentially influence party decisions unfairly.
In response to the interim order, Secondus, Omehia, and Opara promptly filed applications requesting a stay of execution, aiming to suspend the restraining orders until their appeals could be heard.
However, Justice Ekwo dismissed these applications, deeming them improperly filed and therefore incompetent.
The halting of proceedings due to Justice Ekwo's absence underscores the sensitivity and urgency of the legal disputes within the PDP.
These developments have heightened tensions within the party, particularly in Rivers State, where political maneuvering often shapes national party dynamics.