‎The Ondo APC Arise Movement, a political pressure group operating under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, has faulted a court order reportedly affecting the party’s congress.
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‎The group insisted that internal party matters largely fall outside the jurisdiction of the courts under the Electoral Act 2026.
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‎In a statement issued in Akure and jointly signed by its Chairman, Yemi Patrick Adetoyinbo, and Secretary, Odele Olatubosun, the group urged all political actors to operate within the ambit of the law while respecting statutory provisions that guide party affairs.
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‎The statement cited Section 83(5) of the Electoral Act 2026, which provides that “no court in Nigeria shall entertain jurisdiction over any suit or matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party,” except in circumstances explicitly outlined by law.
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‎According to the group, this provision was designed to prevent unnecessary judicial interference in internal party processes, including congresses and other administrative matters.
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‎The Arise Movement further noted that where suits are filed contrary to the law, courts are not expected to grant interim or interlocutory injunctions. Instead, rulings are to be suspended until the stage of final judgment, with accelerated hearing mandated for such matters.
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‎It also referenced Section 83(6) of the Act, which prescribes penalties for parties who file suits in contravention of the law, including a minimum cost of N10 million each for the plaintiff and counsel involved.
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‎In addition, the statement pointed to Section 83(3), which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to direct enquiries on party matters to officials of the political party at the national, state, local government, or ward levels.
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‎Expressing concern over the court order, the group questioned the motive behind the legal action, asking: “Who wants to destabilise the APC in Ondo State and for what end?”
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‎The Ondo APC Arise Movement said it represents the “silent majority” of party members committed to maintaining the unity and stability of the ruling party in the state.
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‎The group added that party stakeholders would continue to defend the legal integrity of the party’s internal processes, declaring that the “silent majority of party members shall arise” in defence of the APC.
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