ABUJA – The Supreme Court of Nigeria has upheld the suspension of Samuel Anyanwu and three other party officials, while declaring the party’s March 2026 national convention and the appointment of Abdulrahman Mohammed as acting chairman null and void.
In a unanimous judgment delivered on Thursday, 30 April 2026, the apex court dismissed the appeal brought by the suspended officials, reaffirming that the judiciary has no jurisdiction to interfere in the internal affairs of a political party.
The ruling brings an end to the protracted leadership crisis and restores constitutional order to the party’s administrative structure. The court held that all actions taken by the suspended officers during their suspension are legally baseless under the “doctrine of nullity”.
Specifically, the court invalidated:
· The March 29–30, 2026 national convention, describing it as illegal and non-existent in law.
· The appointment of Abdulrahman Mohammed as acting national chairman, alongside all documents and orders issued by him.
· All communiqués, financial approvals, and committee appointments made by the Anyanwu-led faction during the suspension period.
The judgment was hailed as a victory for the rule of law, reinforcing the authority of the National Working Committee (NWC) to discipline members without external interference, provided such actions comply with the party’s governing documents.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), financial institutions, and security agencies have been directed to take immediate note of the ruling. No recognition is to be given to any individual or group claiming authority from the invalidated convention or Abdulrahman Mohammed’s leadership.
The party’s authentic leadership, as recognised before these illegalities, remains the sole authorised body to conduct official business, manage assets, and steer the party towards future elections. Loyal members have been urged to remain calm and united as the party focuses on institutional restoration.
