The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a summons to the National Assembly’s management, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and nine other individuals. They are required to appear within 30 days in response to a lawsuit initiated by the House Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The suit challenges an alleged attempt to oust him from his leadership role.
The summons, dated September 16, 2025, and signed by Dr. J.Y. Musa, SAN, representing Chinda, reveals claims that efforts are underway to remove the Minority Leader due to his connection with the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The court document commands the defendants to enter an appearance within thirty days of service, warning that failure to do so may result in a judgment against them in their absence. It also specifies that the writ must be served within twelve months, with provisions for renewal.
Defendants, including Speaker Abbas, the National Assembly Clerk, and opposition party members, are permitted to respond either personally or through legal counsel by submitting the appropriate forms to the Federal High Court’s registrar in Abuja, either in person or via registered mail.
In his claim, Chinda seeks several declarations and injunctions. He argues that any attempt to remove him based on his association with Minister Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, infringes on his constitutional right to freedom of association as protected under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
He further contends that the defendants lack the legal authority to dismiss him without adhering to the procedural requirements outlined in Order 7 Rule 14 of the House of Representatives’ Standing Orders (Eleventh Edition). He describes any such removal as arbitrary and contrary to democratic principles.
Chinda requests the court to issue injunctions preventing the defendants and their agents from proceeding with any actions aimed at removing him unlawfully. He also asks for an order restraining the first five defendants from enforcing any purported removal that violates constitutional provisions or House rules.
Additionally, the court granted an interim injunction on September 15, 2025, halting any removal of Chinda pending the resolution of the motion on notice. The judge emphasized the importance of ensuring all parties have equal opportunity to present their case, referencing Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
The court ordered that the plaintiff must promptly serve all defendants with the motion and related documents to prevent any premature actions that could undermine the case’s outcome. It also mandated an expedited hearing of the motion to ensure timely justice.
An interlocutory injunction was also issued, barring the defendants from removing Chinda without following due legal process until the substantive suit is decided.
The court’s decision highlighted that Order 7 Rule 14 of the House’s Standing Orders governs leadership changes within the Minority Parties. It requires proper notice to the House and that any leadership change must be approved by a majority of the party members themselves.
Since the House is currently in recess and many Minority Party members are absent, the court noted that no legitimate majority exists to authorize a leadership change. Despite this, some Minority Party members, particularly from the Peoples Democratic Party, are reportedly attempting to remove Chinda without valid cause.
The court underscored that the sole motivation behind this move appears to be Chinda’s relationship with Minister Wike, which is protected under the constitutional right to freedom of association. Chinda represents Minister Wike’s constituency in the House, reinforcing his legitimate association.
The judge warned that without judicial intervention, the Minority Parties might carry out an unconstitutional removal of Chinda before the defendants have a chance to respond, thereby violating his rights and the House’s procedural rules.
In response, the Deputy Spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, affirmed the institution’s commitment to constitutional democracy and the rule of law. He assured that Speaker Abbas would engage all stakeholders to resolve the issue fairly and in accordance with democratic principles.
Agbese stated, “The 10th House of Representatives remains dedicated to upholding constitutional values and legal processes. The Speaker will work with all involved parties to reach an equitable solution consistent with our democratic ethos. We appreciate public interest and will provide updates through official channels as necessary.”