By EMMANUEL OLONIRUHA

The Nyesom Wike-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has hailed the Court of Appeal judgment affirming its leadership.

The appellate court dismissed a suit challenging the earlier judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on the party’s leadership.

The suit was instituted by the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), led by Sen. Adolphus Wabara, alongside Prof. Jerry Gana, Babangida Aliyu, Maryam Inna Ciroma and others.

It was instituted against the party’s Interim National Working Committee (NWC), led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN).

The PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, said this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

The appellate court unanimously affirmed the lower court’s decision and upheld the dismissal of the appeal.

The News Agency of Nigeria NAN reports that the court awarded additional costs against the appellants.

Mohammed described the judgment as a major victory for the PDP, the rule of law and the supremacy of its constitution.

He said the ruling further affirmed the legitimacy of the National Working Committee led by Alhaji Abdulrahman Mohammed.

He identified Sen. Samuel Anyanwu as the authentic National Secretary of the party.

“The unanimous decision of the Court of Appeal should put to rest any perceived lingering doubts regarding the legitimacy of the party’s recognised leadership,” he said.

Mohammed said the judgment reaffirmed that the party’s affairs must follow its constitution, established procedures and the rule of law.

He urged PDP members, leaders and stakeholders to respect the court’s pronouncement and work towards rebuilding the party.

He also called for stronger internal cohesion and preparations for the political tasks ahead.

“At this critical moment, the PDP must rise above unnecessary distractions, factional interests and divisive tendencies.

“Our collective responsibility is to protect the party, restore its unity and reposition it as a credible alternative for Nigerians,” he said.

Mohammed described the judgment as a victory for constitutional order, legitimate leadership and party unity.

However, the Turaki-led Interim NWC said it would challenge the judgment at the Supreme Court.

The faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Ini Ememobong, said this in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday.

Ememobong said the faction respected the court’s judgment but remained determined to pursue justice.

He said the faction had instructed its lawyers to immediately file an appeal before the Supreme Court.

“It is our belief that no matter how deep the truth is buried, if those seeking it are persistent in digging, it will one day resurface,” he said.

Ememobong argued that the PDP must remain an independent opposition party rather than become an appendage of the ruling party.

“Democracy survives only when the opposition is strong enough to effectively engage the government,” he said.

He urged party members to remain firm and resolute as the faction approached the apex court.

Ememobong expressed optimism that the legal battle would ultimately strengthen multiparty democracy and benefit future generations. (NAN)