By Ahmed Ahmed
Concerned Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Bauchi State have urged the court to vacate the purported interim order restraining the conduct of the People’s Redemption Party governorship primary election in the state.
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Addressing journalists on Thursday in Bauchi, the coalition, led by its Convener, Najim Nurudeen, argued that the order allegedly issued in Suit No. BA/181/2026 was inconsistent with provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026 and existing judicial precedents relating to political party affairs.
The suit, filed by Idrees Safiyanu Gambo against the People’s Redemption Party, Shehu Buba Umar and the Independent National Electoral Commission, reportedly restrained the party from conducting its governorship primary election and barred INEC from supervising the exercise pending the hearing of a motion on notice.
The CSOs maintained that while court orders must be respected, courts are equally bound to operate within the limits of jurisdiction provided by law.
According to the coalition, Section 88(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026 expressly prohibits courts from issuing interim or interlocutory orders restraining the conduct of party primaries, congresses or conventions.
The group also cited judicial authorities, including Onuoha v. Okafor, Dalhatu v. Turaki and Lado v. CPC, which they said affirmed that nomination of candidates remains largely an internal party matter except where otherwise provided by statute.
The coalition further referenced Supreme Court decisions in Madukolu v. Nkemdilim and Tukur v. Government of Gongola State, stressing that proceedings conducted without jurisdiction amount to nullities.
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The CSOs appealed to the court to set aside the order to preserve public confidence in the judiciary, uphold democratic principles and ensure compliance with the Electoral Act.
They also urged politicians, party supporters and residents of Bauchi to remain peaceful and avoid actions capable of escalating political tension while judicial processes continue.
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