The leadership tussle in the Action Alliance has taken a new turn as the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja restrained the Nigeria Police and other security agencies from harassing or arresting the party’s National Chairman, Kenneth Udeze, and his executive.
Justice Chizoba Oji, ruling on an ex parte motion, ordered the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force, the Force Criminal Investigation Department, and one Yakubu Sule to maintain the status quo until a pending motion in a fundamental rights suit is heard.
The court barred the police from acting on a July 10, 2025 letter that triggered the dispute and directed that court processes be served through the Police Legal Department at Force Headquarters and, in the case of the fifth respondent, Adekunle Rufai Omoaje, by pasting at his Abuja residence.
Those protected by the order include AA National Secretary, Vernimbe James, Treasurer, Ekeng Effiom, Financial Secretary, Ali Abacha, and Legal Adviser, Emeka Anukwuem.
Omoaje, a former member of the party, was accused of instigating police action after losing multiple court battles.
According to James, at least nine judgments, including Supreme Court rulings, have affirmed Udeze’s leadership.
In a statement made available to Saturday PUNCH, the AA leadership alleged that Omoaje, whose appeal at the Supreme Court was still pending, had “resorted to the police for self-help” and was “mounting pressure on INEC” to recognise him as chairman.
It urged the commission to “resist any temptation from these expelled former members” and uphold the February 22, 2025 National Convention results.
“Instead of waiting for the Supreme Court’s decision, Omoaje is trying to stop the legitimate leadership from performing its duties. This madness must stop,” the statement read.
The AA also condemned what it described as the “disturbing action” of the police against African Action Congress chairman, Omoyele Sowore, demanding his immediate release or arraignment if there are valid charges against him.
