Oshiomholes suspension all you need to know about the court case

A very timely topic!

On February 13, 2020, the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) suspended the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, Danladi Umar, from office for six months without salary and allowances. This was in connection with a case involving the suspension of the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Bichi, and the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu.

However, the suspension of Adams Oshiomhole, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party on June 25, 2020, is a different matter.

Here's what you need to know about the court case:

Background: Adams Oshiomhole was suspended by the APC NEC on June 25, 2020, following a recommendation by the party's National Working Committee (NWC). The suspension was due to alleged anti-party activities, gross misconduct, and disobedience to party orders.

Court Case: Oshiomhole challenged his suspension in court, filing a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja. He sought an order setting aside the suspension and restraining the APC from taking any further action against him.

Arguments: Oshiomhole's lawyers argued that the suspension was unlawful, unconstitutional, and a breach of his fundamental rights. They contended that the APC NEC lacked the power to suspend him, as the party's constitution does not provide for such a power.

Counter-arguments: The APC, through its lawyers, argued that Oshiomhole's suspension was lawful and in accordance with the party's constitution. They contended that the NWC had the power to suspend him under Article 21 (D) of the APC constitution, which provides for the suspension of a member who engages in anti-party activities.

Ruling: On July 2, 2020, Justice Ahmed Mohammed of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted an interim injunction restraining the APC from taking any further action against Oshiomhole pending the determination of the suit. The court also ordered Oshiomhole to maintain the status quo ante, which means that he should remain suspended pending the outcome of the case.

Next Steps: The case is ongoing, and the court will eventually deliver a final judgment on the matter. If the court rules in Oshiomhole's favor, his suspension will be set aside, and he will be reinstated as the APC National Chairman. If the court rules against him, his suspension will be upheld, and he may face further disciplinary action from the party.

Implications: The outcome of this case has significant implications for Nigerian politics, particularly the APC. If Oshiomhole is reinstated, it could lead to a power struggle within the party. On the other hand, if his suspension is upheld, it could lead to a leadership crisis in the party.