The Federal High Court in Abuja has finalized proceedings in a case brought by Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, who is seeking to be officially recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the Accord Party candidate for the 2027 presidential election. Justice Mohammed Umar scheduled the matter for judgment following the submission of final arguments from all involved parties.
Represented by Henry Akunebu, SAN, the plaintiff requested that the court force the Accord Party to submit his name to INEC. Olawepo-Hashim questioned the legitimacy of evidence presented by the defendants, specifically a letter claiming the primary election was canceled. He argued that the documentation lacked the necessary official stamps and was improperly addressed. Furthermore, he challenged the validity of a digital membership register provided by the party, noting the absence of a required certificate of compliance.
The plaintiff stated that he was the sole winner of the May 30, 2026, primary after paying the necessary nomination fees. Conversely, the Accord Party and INEC maintained that the lawsuit should be rejected. Counsel for the party, T. W. Olusesi, claimed the primary was canceled due to a lack of candidates, while INEC’s legal team, led by D. J. Gusen, stated the commission did not monitor the event because of this cancellation. Justice Umar concluded the session and indicated that the date for the final ruling will be announced later.
