In a dramatic turn of events, the National Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has confirmed that it directed the congress committee in Ondo State to suspend the planned congress in compliance with a recent court order.
This revelation was made by APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, during an appearance on Arise Television on Tuesday evening.
Senator Bashiru addressed the situation head-on, stating, “We woke up to a court order by the Federal High Court, and as a law-abiding party, we directed our team in that place to wait until the court order is vacated or there is a contrary order from the court.”
His comments highlight the party’s commitment to following legal protocols amid ongoing controversies surrounding the congress.
The senator further explained the party’s position, emphasising that while the APC does not agree with the court order that has restrained the holding of the congress, it is imperative to respect judicial rulings. “We are not a party of illegality. Even though we believe that the court order ought not to have been granted to restrain the holding of the congress because it is not a perishable item, when there is a positive order of court, you must respect it,” he stated.
Bashiru reiterated the significance of adhering to the law, adding, “You must respect it, even when you file an application to set it aside, unless there is a statutory provision to the contrary. So we are obeying the court order, but of course we are going to challenge that order for it to be vacated.”
This latest development follows a tumultuous period for the APC in Ondo State, where the party’s internal dynamics have been scrutinised in light of legal challenges and allegations made by aggrieved members. The Federal High Court had issued an injunction prohibiting the party from recognising or acting on the outcomes of previous ward and local government congresses, leading to confusion and dissent among party stakeholders.
As the situation unfolds, the APC’s actions and responses to the court ruling will be closely observed, particularly as they prepare to challenge the injunction. The party’s commitment to legality amid internal strife reflects its efforts to navigate the complexities of governance and party politics in Nigeria.
The implications of this court order and the subsequent decision to halt the congress will undoubtedly shape the future of the APC in Ondo State as it seeks to maintain its political relevance and unity in the lead-up to upcoming elections.
