Introduction

Legal analyst Liborous Oshoma explains why INEC must recognise Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the Accord Party's court-affirmed presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

What Happened

The dispute stems from the Accord Party's presidential primary held on May 30, 2026, which was monitored by INEC officials. Despite the candidate paying the required nomination fee and submitting proper documentation, the party leadership attempted to cancel the primary and refused to upload his name to INEC's portal, prompting judicial intervention.

Why This Matters

Oshoma argues that INEC's role is strictly that of an umpire with no stake in the internal affairs of political parties. Since the commission did not contest the primary's validity before the court and has remained silent on whether it was properly notified, the judgment obligates it to enforce the court's decision and update its records accordingly.

Key Takeaways

  • Court affirmation: The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Mohammed Garba Umar, affirmed Olawepo-Hashim as the valid presidential candidate after finding documentary evidence of a properly conducted primary.
  • INEC's role: INEC was a nominal party in the case and did not provide evidence that it was uninformed of the primary process, making compliance with the judgment mandatory.
  • Judicial trend: Oshoma warns that Nigeria's growing tendency to resolve election disputes through litigation risks judicialising politics, which undermines the supremacy of the ballot.
  • Party credibility: The ruling highlights the need for stronger opposition parties and greater adherence to electoral timelines and documentation.

Conclusion

With the court's judgment now in effect, INEC faces pressure to recognise Olawepo-Hashim's candidacy and update its platform. Oshoma's analysis underscores that electoral credibility depends on institutions respecting judicial decisions while prioritizing transparent primary processes ahead of the 2027 election cycle.