Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has declined a request by leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Wuse Ward, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to bar Senator Ireti Kingibe from participating in party activities following her alleged suspension.
Instead, the court directed the ward leaders, reportedly aligned with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike to formally notify the senator of the suit and give her an opportunity to respond.
In a ruling, Justice Lifu held that the court must exercise discretion “judicially and judiciously,” particularly in political matters involving requests to restrain party members from participation.
He stressed that justice would only be served if both parties are heard on the merits, noting that the plaintiffs’ claims cannot be determined without affording the defendant a fair hearing.
Consequently, the judge ordered that all court processes be served on Senator Kingibe to enable her prepare her defence. He adjourned the matter to April 20, 2026, for hearing of all pending applications.
The suit was filed by Okezuo Godfrey Anayo and Isaiah Ojonugwa Samuel on behalf of themselves and other ward members, with Senator Kingibe listed as the sole defendant.
In their ex parte application, the plaintiffs claimed that Kingibe, who represents the FCT in the Senate was suspended on March 10, 2026, by the Wuse Ward executive over alleged anti-party activities and disregard for the party’s constitution.
Through their counsel, Kolawole Olowookere (SAN), the plaintiffs sought an interim injunction restraining the senator from presenting herself as a member of the ADC pending the determination of their motion for interlocutory injunction.
They also urged the court to bar her from attending meetings, performing party functions, or representing the ADC in any capacity. Additionally, they sought an order restraining her from interfering in the administration of the ward, including its register and internal affairs.
The application was anchored on several grounds, including allegations of anti-party conduct, gross misconduct, and the alleged seizure of the ward’s statutory records.
According to the plaintiffs, the suspension followed due process as outlined in the ADC constitution and was ratified by a two-thirds majority of the ward executive.
They further alleged that despite being notified of her suspension, Kingibe has continued to convene parallel meetings, issue statements as an ADC member, and use her security details to intimidate party officials.
“Her actions constitute a flagrant disregard for the internal mechanisms of the party,” the plaintiffs stated.
Meanwhile, a lawyer, Abubakar Marshall, who said he represents the senator, informed the court that he had filed a preliminary objection challenging the suit. He added that the application had been served on M. S. Garba, counsel to the plaintiffs, during Thursday’s proceedings.
