The Federal High Court in Umuahia has rejected a lawsuit initiated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that aimed to remove Dennis Chinwendu Roland, the representative for Isiala Ngwa South Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly. The PDP argued that Roland’s defection to the Labour Party in February 2025 violated the 1999 Constitution, as he was originally elected under their banner.
In its legal action, the PDP requested the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare Roland’s seat vacant and organize a fresh election for the constituency. The party also named INEC and the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly as respondents in the case.
However, Justice S. B. Onu, who presided over the matter, dismissed the suit due to the PDP’s failure to diligently prosecute the case. The judge noted that neither the plaintiff nor the defendants appeared at the last court session, despite proper notifications being sent to all parties. This lack of interest led to the dismissal of the PDP’s prayers.
Roland represents the constituency of Governor Alex Otti, adding political significance to the case. The court’s decision effectively allows Roland to retain his seat in the state legislature.