A recent Federal High Court ruling has nullified the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary election in Ekiti State, ordering a fresh governorship primary exercise. This development stems from a suit filed by governorship aspirant Mr. Funsho Ayeni, who alleged irregularities concerning the delegate list used in the previous election. The court’s decision highlights the critical importance of adhering to legal provisions and party guidelines in electoral processes. The focus now shifts to ensuring transparency and fairness in the upcoming primary. The original PDP governorship primary election was challenged by Mr. Funsho Ayeni, who argued that the party failed to present an authentic list of statutory and ad hoc delegates. Ayeni contended that this omission represented a fundamental breach of the PDP’s guidelines and the Electoral Act, thereby invalidating the election’s outcome. This legal challenge underscores the meticulous attention required in delegate selection for party primaries to be considered legitimate. What is the significance of this court nullification? The nullification signifies that the previous PDP primary election in Ekiti State did not meet the legal standards required for a valid electoral process. It necessitates a new election to ensure that all eligible aspirants have a fair chance to compete, reinforcing the principles of internal democracy within the party. Justice Babs Kuewumi, the presiding judge, delivered the verdict, stating that the conduct of the primary election did not comply with the law and the party’s constitution. Consequently, the court ordered the PDP, in collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to organize a fresh governorship primary. This fresh election must strictly adhere to legal requirements and relevant guidelines to ensure its validity. The judge further emphasized that all eligible aspirants should be permitted to participate in the new primary election. This directive is intended to promote transparency, fairness, and internal democracy within the PDP, allowing for a more equitable contest for the governorship ticket. Ensuring all voices are heard is crucial for party unity and public trust. The Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti had previously adjourned the case instituted against the PDP candidate, Dr. Wole Oluyede, until December 8, 2025. It was following this adjournment that the date for the judgment was scheduled. This timeline indicates the deliberate pace at which judicial processes unfold, allowing for thorough consideration of all arguments. Dr. Wole Oluyede had initially emerged as the winner of the gubernatorial primary election conducted on November 8, 2025. He secured 279 votes, defeating Funsho Ayeni and another aspirant, Mrs. Funmi Ogun. This prior outcome is now superseded by the court’s decision, prompting a restart of the selection process. The suit, numbered FHC/AD/CS/29/2025, was filed by Ayeni specifically to challenge Oluyede’s victory in the primary election. The legal battle focused on the procedural integrity of the election, rather than the popularity of the candidates themselves, highlighting the importance of process over immediate results. During the last hearing, a legal team led by Kola Kolade, SAN, represented Ayeni. Ola Olanipekun, SAN, and Owoseni Ajayi appeared for Oluyede. The PDP’s legal representation was handled by the Osun State Legal Adviser, Ola Alonge, who held brief for the party. This demonstrates the high level of legal expertise involved in the proceedings. After hearing the submissions from all parties involved, Justice Babs Kuewumi assured that he would expedite the hearing of the case. This commitment to a swift resolution is vital for political parties to move forward with their election preparations without undue delay, especially as the 2026 elections approach. The court nullifying the PDP primary election in Ekiti State is a significant event that will lead to a fresh governorship primary. This process must be conducted with the utmost adherence to legal standards and party regulations to ensure a credible outcome that reflects the will of the party faithful. The focus on transparency and fairness is paramount. The implications of this court order extend to the PDP’s preparedness for the upcoming 2026 governorship election. A well-conducted primary is essential for presenting a united and strong candidate to the electorate. The party will need to address the concerns raised by the court to ensure the next primary is beyond reproach. Looking ahead, the PDP must learn from this experience and implement robust internal mechanisms to prevent similar issues in future elections. The integrity of the electoral process, both internal and external, is crucial for maintaining public confidence and achieving electoral success. The court’s intervention serves as a reminder of the legal framework governing political activities. The nullification of the PDP primary election by the Federal High Court is a pivotal moment. The order for a fresh governorship primary in Ekiti State underscores the critical need for procedural correctness in all political contests. Aspirants and parties alike must prioritize adherence to electoral laws and party constitutions to ensure the legitimacy of their processes. The court’s decision to order a fresh primary election for the PDP governorship in Ekiti State emphasizes the importance of due process in political nominations. This ensures that the party’s candidate is chosen through fair and transparent means, ultimately strengthening the party’s standing and its ability to contest the 2026 election effectively.
