The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally petitioned the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, over what it describes as a “recurring pattern” in the assignment of its cases to three Abuja-based judges.
In a letter dated November 19, Taofeek Arapaja, the PDP’s National Secretary, expressed concern that Judges James Omotosho, Peter Lifu, and Mohammed Abdulmalik are repeatedly assigned matters involving the party.
The issue covers both suits filed by the PDP and cases filed against it.
“The repeated allocation of our cases to these judges has raised fears among our members,” the petition read. “Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.”
The petition comes amid mounting legal disputes over the PDP’s recent national convention, which has deepened internal party divisions. Previously, Judge Omotosho issued an order halting the convention following a suit by party members challenging its constitutional compliance.
Judge Lifu also halted preparations in response to claims by former Jigawa governor, Sule Lamido. However, the PDP proceeded with the convention based on a counter-ruling by Judge Ladiran Akintola of the Oyo High Court.
Arapaja urged that “in no other matters filed by or against our party henceforth should these three judges be assigned, given the importance of public trust in the judicial process.”
While affirming confidence in the judiciary, the PDP stressed the need to address the “fears and apprehension” of its members to maintain trust in the administration of justice.
