By George Omagbemi Sylvester
The Court of Appeal, Akure Division, on Thursday, March 12, 2026, delivered a judgment affirming the validity of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) primary election in Ekiti State, which produced Dr. Wole Oluyede as the party’s governorship candidate.
Justice Ibrahim Saulawa, in the lead judgment, dismissed the appeal challenging the primary, ruling that Oluyede’s nomination was constitutional and in compliance with party and electoral laws. The court held that the processes leading to his emergence as the PDP flag‑bearer were free, fair, and transparent, and that the appellant failed to prove irregularities that would nullify the election.
The appellate panel emphasised that courts should be cautious about interfering in internal party matters, especially when the complainant cannot provide substantive evidence of procedural breaches. By affirming the primary’s validity, the court has cleared the way for Oluyede to remain on the ballot ahead of the upcoming governorship election in Ekiti State.
Supporters of Oluyede welcomed the ruling, saying it reinforces the party’s unity and strengthens their campaign momentum. Meanwhile, legal observers noted that the judgment could set a precedent discouraging baseless pre‑election litigations that seek to disqualify candidates without solid proof.
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