A Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti has nullified the outcome of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) recent governorship primary election in the state. The court ordered a fresh primary exercise, citing non-compliance with the party’s guidelines and the Electoral Act. The judgement was delivered in a suit filed by governorship aspirant Funsho Ayeni, who challenged the validity of the primary election.
According to court documents, Ayeni alleged that the PDP failed to present the original and authentic list of statutory and ad-hoc delegates used for the exercise. The plaintiff argued that this omission constituted a fundamental breach of the PDP guidelines and the Electoral Act, rendering the primary election invalid. The court agreed, holding that the conduct of the primary election did not comply with the provisions of the law and the party’s constitution.
Presiding Judge Justice Babs Kuewumi ordered the PDP, in conjunction with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to conduct a fresh governorship primary election in strict compliance with the law and relevant guidelines. The judge directed that all eligible aspirants be allowed to participate in the fresh primary election to ensure transparency, fairness, and internal democracy within the party.
The case had been adjourned earlier, with the court fixing a new date for judgement after hearing submissions from both parties. The PDP had conducted its gubernatorial primary election on November 8, 2025, with Dr Wole Oluyede emerging as the winner. However, Ayeni challenged Oluyede’s victory, citing irregularities in the election process.
The court’s decision is significant, as it highlights the importance of adherence to electoral guidelines and the rule of law in the democratic process. The fresh primary election is expected to provide a more transparent and fair opportunity for all aspirants to participate. The development is being closely watched, as it may have implications for the upcoming general elections in the state. With the court’s order, the PDP and INEC are now mandated to conduct a new primary election, ensuring that the democratic process is upheld and the rights of all aspirants are protected.
