The Abakaliki Division of the Federal High Court has stopped the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from recognizing the Steve Oruruo-led caretaker committee in Ebonyi State. Justice Hillary Oshomah issued the order following a suit by former state chairman Silas Ọnụ, seeking to prevent the committee's recognition until the court resolves the originating summons.
The internal conflict within the Ebonyi State PDP, which began before the 2023 general elections, has resulted in significant factionalization. The National Working Committee's recent appointment of the caretaker committee, led by Enugu State's Steve Oruruo, has further fueled the crisis, causing high-profile defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC), including former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim.
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Silas Ọnụ, an aggrieved stakeholder, filed a motion on June 20, 2024, to restrain the PDP from appointing and INEC from recognizing the caretaker committee. When the matter was heard on July 19, PDP's counsel, Godwin Ngwuta, indicated the party's lack of opposition to the application.
Justice Oshomah's ruling ordered all parties to maintain the status quo and avoid any actions that could undermine the court's final decision. This measure aims to ensure stability within the Ebonyi State PDP and uphold the legal process.
