A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olabode George, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to comply fully with the Supreme Court judgment on the internal affairs of the party, warning against actions capable of undermining Nigeria’s constitutional order and democratic institutions.

George, who holds the traditional title of Atona O’odua of Yorubaland, made the call in a statement on Friday, where he expressed concern over what he described as delays in implementing the apex court’s decision on the PDP leadership dispute.

He said the Supreme Court had affirmed the lawful structure and democratic operations of the PDP, including the suspension of individuals said to have acted contrary to the party’s constitutional processes.

According to him, the judgment of the apex court is final and binding on all institutions and public officers in the country.

“The Supreme Court has spoken. Its judgment is not open to selective interpretation or administrative convenience. Every institution and agency of government is under a constitutional obligation to comply,” he said.

George questioned why the judgment had allegedly not been fully implemented weeks after it was delivered and communicated, insisting that such a development raises concerns about respect for the rule of law and constitutional governance.

The PDP chieftain also referenced the role of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Mahmood Yakubu, noting that as a Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, he should appreciate the supremacy of Supreme Court decisions.

“This is not merely about the PDP. It is about the integrity of our democratic institutions and whether constitutional order will prevail over political expediency,” he stated.

George further alleged that certain individuals outside the recognised leadership structure of the PDP were attempting to interfere in the affairs of the opposition party and create confusion within the political system.

He criticised what he described as “political double dealing” and urged party members to uphold discipline, loyalty and internal democracy.

He also referred to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, saying the former Rivers State governor should reflect on actions “many Nigerians perceive as contributing to division within the opposition and unnecessary tension within the democratic landscape.”

George warned that continued disregard for lawful processes and constitutional institutions could weaken public confidence in democracy and threaten national stability.

Drawing parallels with periods of political instability in Nigeria’s history, he urged political leaders and institutions to act responsibly in order to safeguard democratic governance.

He also called on former Heads of State, traditional rulers, religious leaders and senior jurists to speak out in defence of justice, due process and constitutional order.

“The rule of law must prevail. The authority of the Supreme Court must be respected. The integrity of our democratic process must be protected,” he said. (The Guardian)

Update news