By: Sunday Ameh
The group made the position known in a statement issued in Akure on Thursday and signed by its Chairman, Yemi Patrick Adetoyinbo, and Secretary, Odele Olatubosun.
According to the group, Section 83(5) of the Electoral Act 2026 clearly stipulates that no court in Nigeria shall entertain suits relating to the internal affairs of a political party, except under specific circumstances provided by law.
It stated that where such cases are filed contrary to the provision, courts are not expected to grant interim or interlocutory injunctions but should instead suspend rulings until the stage of final judgment while ensuring accelerated hearing of the matter.
The statement further referenced Section 83(6) of the Act, which prescribes penalties for filing suits in violation of the provision, including a minimum cost of N10 million each against the plaintiff and the counsel involved.
The group also cited Section 83(3) of the Act, which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to direct enquiries concerning party affairs to relevant officials of the political party at the national, state, local government, or ward levels.
Expressing concern over the implications of the reported court order, the Ondo APC Arise Movement questioned the motive behind the legal action.
“Who wants to destabilise the APC in Ondo State and for what end?” the group asked.
Describing itself as the “silent majority” within the party, the group said its members remain committed to protecting the stability and unity of the ruling party in the state.
It added that party stakeholders would continue to defend the integrity of the party’s internal processes and uphold the legal provisions guiding political party activities in Nigeria.
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