The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Oladipupo Adebutu, has welcomed a Federal High Court judgement ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise him as the party’s candidate for the 2027 governorship election.
Adebutu, in a statement issued on Friday, described the ruling as a victory for the rule of law, saying justice had prevailed after his name was omitted from INEC’s published list of candidates.
Earlier on Friday, the presiding judge, Peter Lifu, ordered INEC to publish Adebutu’s name as the PDP’s duly nominated candidate within 24 hours.
The judge held that the electoral commission lacked the authority to unilaterally remove the name of a candidate validly nominated by a political party.
Reacting to the judgement, Adebutu expressed appreciation to the PDP leadership, particularly its national leader, Nyesom Wike, and National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, for their support throughout the legal battle.
“Justice has prevailed! Relief is here. This development is a significant affirmation of the rule of law, due process and the democratic principles upon which our nation stands,” he said.
“From the moment my name was omitted from INEC’s published list, I maintained that the facts surrounding my PDP membership, registration and the process that produced me as the party’s governorship candidate were clear.”
He said the party remained confident in its position and pursued the matter through the appropriate legal channels.
The PDP candidate also thanked the Ogun State chapter of the party, its members and supporters for remaining steadfast throughout the process.
Adebutu commended the judiciary, stressing that democratic institutions must remain strong, independent and committed to upholding the law regardless of political interests or affiliations.
He added that his focus remained on engaging with the people of Ogun State, presenting solutions to challenges facing their communities and pursuing a future built on opportunity, accountability and inclusive development.
He urged his supporters to remain calm and conduct themselves with dignity and respect for the law, insisting that his political mission was centred on the welfare and progress of the state.
