Court warns INEC chair and Anyanwu over PDP dispute
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has issued a notice warning Samuel Anyanwu, national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, and Prof Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, about the consequences of disobeying its order. The court’s action follows ongoing legal battles over Anyanwu’s expulsion from the PDP and subsequent leadership disputes. The party remains divided into two main factions, each pursuing separate legal actions. The situation has intensified with threats of contempt proceedings and further legal steps.
What we know
- The court issued a notice in Form 48 dated 20th April 2026, warning Samuel Anyanwu and Prof Joash Amupitan of possible imprisonment if they do not comply with its January 12, 2026, judgment dismissing Anyanwu’s suit.
- Anyanwu was expelled from the PDP after recommendations by the National Disciplinary Committee on March 10, 2025, and this was ratified during the disputed Ibadan convention on November 15, 2025.
- After his expulsion, Anyanwu challenged the decision in court, but his case was dismissed on January 12, 2026, and he filed an appeal on April 10, 2026.
- Despite the court’s ruling, Anyanwu participated in the Wike-backed convention held March 29–30, 2026, which recognized him as national secretary.
- The Tanimu Turaki-led faction sent a letter dated April 16, 2026, to Prof Amupitan, demanding the withdrawal of recognition for Anyanwu and warning of possible contempt proceedings if their demands are not met.
