Turaki-Led PDP Backs Adeleke for Osun Election

• The Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the PDP has endorsed Governor Ademola Adeleke for the Osun governorship election.
• A Court of Appeal judgment had upheld the nomination of Adebayo Adedamola as the PDP's governorship candidate, but Adedamola has since withdrawn his candidacy, and INEC was criticized for its handling of the process.
• The Turaki faction accused INEC of acting in a partisan manner and withholding codes required for uploading candidates.
• The decision may have significant implications for future electoral disputes, particularly with regards to the nomination process and the role of INEC.

Though justice has finally been done, in this case the grant of justice is akin to a denial as there is no opportunity for our candidate to undertake campaigns in preparation for the elections.

The Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its weight behind Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Accord Party candidate, in the upcoming Osun governorship election. This decision follows a Court of Appeal judgment that had upheld the nomination of Adebayo Adedamola as the PDP's governorship candidate for the election, though Adedamola has since withdrawn his candidacy. The appellate court also directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to include the PDP logo on the ballot for the August 15, 2026, election. However, the Turaki faction has criticized INEC's handling of the nomination process, alleging that the commission had refused to recognize its candidate and withheld the codes required for uploading candidates.

The Court of Appeal's decision may have significant implications for future electoral disputes, particularly with regards to the nomination process and the role of INEC. The judgment highlights the importance of adhering to statutory requirements in the nomination process, as failure to do so can lead to serious consequences. Lawyers should note that this ruling may set a precedent for future cases involving electoral disputes, and they should be prepared to advise clients on the potential consequences of this decision.

The Turaki-led PDP's endorsement of Adeleke is a significant development in the Osun governorship election. The faction has accused INEC of acting in a partisan manner, which raises questions about the commission's neutrality in electoral processes. This situation highlights the need for a neutral umpire in elections and underscores the importance of upholding multi-party democracy. Nigerians must resist the do-or-die disposition of some parties to win elections at all costs, and ensure that elections reflect the true wishes of the people.

Lawyers should note that the Court of Appeal's decision may have implications for future electoral disputes, particularly with regards to the nomination process and the role of INEC. They should be prepared to advise clients on the potential consequences of this ruling.

Source: Original reporting via Punch Newspapers