INEC Defends Omission of Adebutu from Ogun Governorship Candidates List

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified its decision to exclude Oladipupo Adebutu and his running mate, Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo, from the list of candidates for the upcoming Ogun State governorship election. 

This announcement comes amid rising tensions within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) as they seek legal redress.

INEC Chairman, Mohammed Haruna, explained that the omission was based on alleged non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, which mandates political parties to submit their membership registers. 

This ruling follows a Supreme Court decision affirming the constitutionality of Section 77(5) to (7) of the Electoral Act.

The commission upheld 66 petitions challenging the final lists of governorship and state Houses of Assembly candidates, while rejecting 64 others. 

Haruna emphasized that the decision was made after a thorough review of relevant records and legal provisions.

The PDP has expressed frustration over the situation, claiming that Adebutu and his running mate followed the same nomination procedures as other candidates. 

Party officials have raised questions about why only their top candidates were omitted, urging for accountability and transparency from INEC.

Party Publicity Secretary Kayode Adebayo stated, “We submitted the required documentation within the stipulated period.

 Why were only Adebutu and Sowunmi-Kolapo left off the list?” He expressed confidence in the party's legal challenge to rectify the situation.

Furthermore, the PDP has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of political interference, alleging that the exclusion is an attempt to weaken the opposition ahead of the elections.

 Adebayo criticized the APC, asserting that they are afraid of facing Adebutu at the polls.

In response to the controversy, the APC has dismissed the PDP's claims as naive, suggesting that the opposition party should focus on resolving its internal issues rather than blaming external factors for its predicament.

As the PDP pursues legal action, party leaders remain committed to their campaign efforts, continuing to mobilize support across Ogun State.

 They are hopeful that the court will rule in their favor and restore Adebutu’s name to the candidates' list.

The upcoming election is shaping up to be a critical test for both the PDP and the APC, as the political landscape in Ogun State remains uncertain. 

INEC's firm stance on compliance with electoral regulations will be pivotal in determining the candidates eligible for the race ahead.