A Federal High Court has nullified the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary election in Ekiti State, ordering a fresh exercise. This decision impacts the upcoming governorship election, a crucial event for political contenders and the state’s future. The initial primary, held on November 8, 2025, declared Dr. Wole Oluyede as the winner, with Dr. Funso Ayeni and Mrs. Funmilayo Ogun as other contenders. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not recognize Oluyede and his running mate, Deji Ogunsakin, in their published candidate list on December 29, 2025, sparking controversy.
Dr. Ayeni initiated legal action, seeking to nullify the primary on the grounds of non-compliance with the PDP’s constitution and guidelines. His legal team argued that the party’s failure to provide the original delegate list for the primary constituted a fundamental breach of electoral laws and party regulations, thereby invalidating the exercise.
Featured snippet paragraph: The court ordered the PDP to conduct a fresh governorship primary because the previous election violated both the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution, specifically concerning the delegate list. This ensures a more transparent and fair process for all aspirants.
Justice Babs Kuewumi, presiding over the case, delivered the judgment in suit number FHC/AD/CS/29/2025. The court found that the conduct of the primary election did not adhere to the established legal framework and the party’s internal rules. This ruling underscores the importance of due process in political party primaries.
In consequence of the judgment, the PDP is now mandated to organize a new governorship primary. The court stipulated that this fresh exercise must be conducted in strict adherence to the Electoral Act and the party’s own guidelines. INEC is also tasked with monitoring the entire process to ensure its integrity.
Furthermore, Justice Kuewumi directed that all eligible aspirants must be granted the opportunity to participate in the rescheduled primary. This directive aims to foster transparency, fairness, and uphold the principles of internal democracy within the PDP.
One of the aspirants, Dr. Wole Oluyede, through his counsel Owoseni Ajayi, expressed his dissatisfaction with the court’s decision. Ajayi indicated that an appeal has already been filed, along with an application seeking a stay of execution pending the appeal.
The nullification of the Ekiti PDP governorship primary raises significant questions about the party’s internal electoral processes and the adherence to regulations. This development will likely lead to further political maneuvering and legal challenges as the parties involved navigate the path towards a valid nomination.
For voters in Ekiti State, this court order signifies a delay in the finalization of candidates for the governorship election. The focus now shifts to the PDP’s ability to conduct a credible and legally compliant fresh primary election that satisfies all stakeholders and electoral requirements.
The legal battle highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls in political party primaries, especially when disputes arise over delegate lists and adherence to established rules. The court’s intervention emphasizes the judiciary’s role in ensuring electoral fairness and upholding democratic principles.
This court nullifies Ekiti PDP governorship primary, ordering a fresh exercise. This decision is a major development in the state’s political landscape, impacting the timeline and dynamics of the upcoming governorship election.
What is the main reason for the Ekiti PDP governorship primary being nullified?
The primary was nullified because the court found that its conduct violated both the Electoral Act and the PDP’s constitution, particularly concerning the failure to produce an authentic list of delegates, which is a fundamental requirement for a valid election.
The legal precedent set by this judgment could influence how future primary elections are conducted by political parties in Nigeria. It serves as a reminder that adherence to electoral laws and party constitutions is paramount.
As the PDP prepares for a new primary, all eyes will be on their ability to conduct a transparent and inclusive exercise. The outcome of this fresh primary will ultimately shape the PDP’s chances in the Ekiti governorship election.
This decision by the Federal High Court is a critical step in ensuring that the Ekiti PDP governorship primary is conducted in a manner that respects legal and constitutional provisions, paving the way for a more legitimate electoral contest.
