The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, to stop assigning any of its cases to three judges of the Federal High Court Justice James Omotosho, Justice Peter Odo Lifu, and Justice Abduimalik whom it described as “courts of particular concern.”
In a formal letter signed by its newly elected National Secretary, Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, the party expressed serious worry that for several years, virtually all cases filed in the Federal High Court, Abuja Division—either by or against the PDP—have been repeatedly and exclusively assigned to the three judges.
The PDP said the pattern has sparked disquiet among its members and has created public perception challenges regarding fairness and neutrality.
The party noted that although the Abuja Division has 12 judges, cases related to the PDP appear to be consistently routed to only three, a development it says raises legitimate fears about transparency.
“It is of great concern to our Party that all matters filed in the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, either for or against our Party, have always been assigned to the same three judges,” the letter read.
“Several of our members have complained bitterly about this. Indeed, all these three courts are viewed by our members and the public as courts of particular concern with regard to matters affecting the PDP.”
The party stressed that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done by reasonable observers, especially given the internal and external challenges the PDP currently faces.
The PDP appealed to the Chief Judge to ensure that no new case involving the party is assigned to Justices Omotosho, Lifu, or Abduimalik going forward, arguing that “justice is rooted in trust and integrity.”
While reaffirming its respect for the Judiciary, the party insisted that its request is necessary to restore confidence and ensure impartial adjudication.
“Our Party reiterates that we have no doubt about the integrity of the Judiciary,” the letter emphasized. “However, the fears and apprehension raised by our members regarding this recurring pattern cannot be ignored.”
