A pressure group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, the Ondo APC Arise Movement, has raised legal concerns over a Federal High Court order on the party’s congress, insisting internal party affairs fall outside the jurisdiction of the courts under the Electoral Act 2026.
The group’s Chairman, Yemi Patrick Adetoyinbo, and Secretary, Odele Olatubosun, in a statement issued in Akure, stressed that all political actors must operate within the law and respect statutory provisions guiding party matters.
Citing Section 83(5) of the Electoral Act, the statement noted that “no court in Nigeria shall entertain jurisdiction over any suit or matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party,” except as expressly allowed by the law.
The group argued that where a suit is brought contrary to the provision, courts should suspend interim rulings until the final judgment stage while granting accelerated hearing, as provided under the Act.
Referencing Section 83(6), the movement noted that penalties, including a minimum of N10 million, apply to plaintiffs and their counsel for violating the provision, while Section 83(3) empowers INEC to direct enquiries to appropriate party officials.
The group questioned the motive behind the court order, asking, “Who wants to destabilise the APC in Ondo State and for what end?” and expressed concern over the implications for party unity.
Describing themselves as the “silent majority” of party members, the group reaffirmed its commitment to defending the stability, unity, and legal integrity of the party’s processes.
In conclusion, the Ondo APC Arise Movement declared, “We the silent majority of party members shall arise,” signalling its determination to uphold the party’s cohesion and lawful operations in the state.
