The case that was brought before the Supreme Court involved the primary election of the Labour party, which resulted in the candidacy of Ginger Onwusibe for the House of Representatives seat in the Isiala Ngwa federal consistency in Abia State. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) had challenged the outcome of the primary election, but the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal.
The 5-man panel of Justices of the Court, presided over by Justice John Inyang Okoro, has ruled that the PDP does have the right to interfere in the internal activities of the Labour party. This decision was based on the principle of party autonomy, which allows political parties to conduct their internal affairs without interference from external parties.
Following the dismissal of the appeal, Barrister Mike Ozekhome, who represented the PDP, explained why he withdrew the case for dismissal. He stated that the Supreme Court did not consider the violation of extant provisions of the law to the constitution and electoral act, which should be viewed differently from the provisions of the electoral act of section 25 Sub section 14C.
This decision by the Supreme Court has significant implications for the Nigerian political landscape, as it upholds the principle of party autonomy and strengthens the internal democracy of political parties. It also underscores the importance of adhering to the provisions of the law in conducting primary elections and other internal party activities.
Overall, the Supreme Court’s decision in this case reinforces the rule of law and sets an important precedent for future cases involving disputes over primary elections and party autonomy in Nigeria.