Federal High Court Affirms Chinedu Obi as NRM Chairman Ending Protracted Leadership Hijack Attempt

The Federal High Court dismisses a suit from a splinter group, affirming Chinedu Obi as the National Rescue Movement’s leader and ending a hijack attempt.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 11:12 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Peoples Gazette

Judicial Protection of Party Sovereignty

The National Rescue Movement has emerged from a significant legal battle with its leadership structure intact following a decisive ruling by the Federal High Court. During a news conference in Abuja, National Chairman Chinedu Obi characterized the court's decision as a landmark victory for social justice and a vital shield for Nigerian democracy. The ruling effectively concludes a coordinated effort by an internal splinter group to displace the recognized executive and hijack the party’s administrative machinery.

The Dismissal of Factional Claims

Presiding Justice J.O. Abdulmalik dismissed the suit brought by the dissident faction, which had sought formal recognition as the legitimate leadership of the NRM. In addition to rejecting the group's primary claims, the court also dismissed a related contempt suit filed against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission. This dual dismissal reinforces the legitimacy of the NRM’s established executive and validates INEC’s decision to recognize the convention and leadership results previously submitted by the party.

Origins of the Leadership Conflict

The internal crisis was triggered by the suspension and subsequent expulsion of the former national chairman, Isaac Udeh, following allegations of anti party activities. According to Chinedu Obi, the ousted chairman then collaborated with Edozie Njoku, a figure previously involved in factional disputes within the APGA, to destabilize the NRM. Obi alleged that Njoku attempted to assume the chairmanship of the NRM in early 2025 despite not meeting the party's basic membership requirements for leadership positions.