ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal High Court in Abuja has reserved judgment in the suit filed by Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim against the Accord Party, seeking recognition as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, after hearing arguments from all parties on Tuesday.
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case for judgment after counsel for the plaintiff, Mr. Olawepo-Hashim, and the defendant, the Accord Party, adopted their final written addresses. The judge did not specify a date for the delivery of the judgment.
Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate, had approached the court seeking a declaration that he is the duly elected presidential candidate of the Accord Party for the 2027 election. He also sought an order compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise and publish his name as the party’s candidate.
The plaintiff argued that he emerged as the party’s candidate through a valid primary election conducted in accordance with the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution. He also contended that the party’s national leadership had ratified his candidacy.
However, the Accord Party, through its counsel, challenged the plaintiff’s claims, arguing that the primary election that produced Olawepo-Hashim was not conducted in accordance with the party’s constitution and relevant electoral laws. The party also contended that the plaintiff did not participate in any valid primary election.
During the hearing, both parties presented their arguments and submitted written addresses in support of their respective positions. The court also heard from the Independent National Electoral Commission, which was joined as a defendant in the suit.
The case is one of several legal disputes arising from the internal party processes of political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the Accord Party’s preparations for the election.
The Accord Party has been a key player in Nigeria’s political landscape, and its candidate selection process has attracted significant attention. The party’s leadership has been embroiled in internal disputes over the legitimacy of its primaries and the emergence of its candidates for various elective positions.
As the court reserves judgment, both parties await the court’s decision on the matter, which will determine the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election. The case has generated significant public interest, as it touches on the broader issues of internal party democracy and the integrity of the electoral process.
