Fesochukwu Jason
The Federal High Court in Abuja has refused an attempt to sideline Senator Ireti Kingibe from the affairs of the African Democratic Congress, delivering a ruling that reinforces fair hearing in Nigeria’s internal party disputes.
Justice Peter Lifu declined an ex parte application filed by ward leaders in Wuse, Federal Capital Territory, who sought an interim order to bar the senator from participating in party activities over alleged anti-party conduct.
Rather than grant the request, the court directed the plaintiffs to formally notify Kingibe and allow her to respond to the allegations, stressing that no party should be condemned without being heard.
The suit, filed by Okezuo Anayo and Isaiah Samuel on behalf of other ward members, claimed that Kingibe was suspended on March 10, 2026, following accusations of misconduct and disregard for party rules. The plaintiffs, reportedly aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, also asked the court to stop the senator from presenting herself as a member of the party or taking part in its activities pending the outcome of the case.
However, in a firm position, Justice Lifu held that the court must act cautiously in political matters and ensure that justice is served through a balanced hearing of all sides. He ruled that the application could not succeed without giving the lawmaker an opportunity to defend herself.
The judge subsequently ordered that all court documents be served on Kingibe and adjourned the matter until April 20, 2026, for the hearing of pending applications.
The development introduces a new twist to the internal crisis within the ADC in the Federal Capital Territory, highlighting growing factional tensions and power struggles at the grassroots level of the party.
Legal analysts say the court’s decision underscores the judiciary’s reluctance to interfere hastily in political party matters without due process, especially where leadership disputes and allegations of misconduct are involved.
Meanwhile, Kingibe’s legal team has already moved to challenge the suit, with her lawyer, Abubakar Marshall, confirming that a preliminary objection has been filed, signaling that the case could evolve into a broader legal battle over party discipline and internal democracy.
The outcome of the case is expected to shape not only Kingibe’s political standing within the ADC but also set a precedent for how internal party conflicts are handled in Nigeria’s legal system.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.