A Federal High Court in Abuja has refused an application seeking to stop Senator Ireti Kingibe from participating in the affairs of the African Democratic Congress.
Delivering a ruling on Thursday, 2 April 2026, Justice Peter Lifu declined an ex parte motion filed by ward leaders of the party in Wuse, Federal Capital Territory.
The plaintiffs had asked the court to restrain the senator from parading herself as a member of the party and from taking part in its activities, following her alleged suspension over anti-party conduct.
Ruling on the request, the judge held that the court must exercise its discretion carefully, particularly in political matters, and said it would be unfair to grant such an order without hearing from all parties involved.
He directed that the senator be formally notified of the suit and given the opportunity to respond to the allegations.
The court also ordered that all relevant processes be served on the lawmaker to enable her prepare a defence.
The case, filed as Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CV/539/2026, was brought by Okezuo Anayo and Isaiah Samuel on behalf of other ward members, with Senator Kingibe listed as the sole defendant.
The plaintiffs claimed she was suspended on 10 March 2026 by ward executives for alleged misconduct and violation of party rules, and sought an interim injunction pending the hearing of the substantive application.
They also requested orders restraining her from attending meetings, performing party functions, or interfering in the administration of the ward.
However, a lawyer representing the senator told the court that a preliminary objection had been filed challenging the suit.
Justice Lifu adjourned the matter until 20 April 2026 for the hearing of all pending applications.
The ruling means Senator Kingibe remains able to participate in party activities pending further proceedings.
