Akure, March 12, 2026 — The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure has affirmed Dr. Wole Oluyede as the legitimate governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2026 Ekiti State election.
In a unanimous decision delivered on Thursday, a three-member appellate panel overturned the earlier ruling of the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, which had nullified the party’s primary election.
Led by Justice Peter Chudi Obiorah and joined by Justices Jane Esienanwan Inyang and Peter O. Affen, the panel held that the PDP primary that produced Oluyede was valid, transparent, and conducted in accordance with both the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act.
The court specifically endorsed the primary organised by the National Working Committee (NWC) under Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, describing it as lawful and properly conducted.
The Federal High Court had previously nullified the PDP governorship primary held on November 8–9, 2025. Dissatisfied with the ruling, the party appealed, seeking a reversal.
Thursday’s appellate judgment settles the leadership and candidacy dispute within the party, clearing the way for Oluyede to lead the PDP into the Ekiti State governorship election.
The ruling ensures the party can now fully focus on the electoral contest, with Oluyede as its endorsed candidate.
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