The Abuja Federal High Court has scheduled July 14, 2026, to hear a lawsuit brought by Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a prominent figure in the Accord Party. Olawepo-Hashim is petitioning the court to mandate that his party officially recognize him as its 2027 presidential candidate and transmit his details to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In his legal filing, Olawepo-Hashim questions the party’s failure to register his name on the INEC portal, noting he was the only victor of the party’s May 30, 2026, primary. He argues this omission violates the 2026 Electoral Act, the Constitution, and established INEC protocols. Should the court not force the submission of his name, he has requested an alternative order requiring the party to hold a new primary election.
The plaintiff claims he is a dedicated, dues-paying member who personally financed an electronic membership campaign with ₦7 million. Furthermore, he asserts he paid the ₦50 million nomination fee and emerged as the undisputed winner of the primary, an event he says was observed by INEC representatives. Despite this, he alleges the party leadership has refused to finalize his candidacy.
During the recent court session, Justice Mohammed Umar approved an extension for INEC to file its defense. While the plaintiff’s lawyer, Henry Akunebu, SAN, pushed for the court to deny INEC’s request based on missed filing deadlines, the judge opted to adjourn until mid-July for the substantive hearing. This case remains a significant test for internal party democracy and the enforcement of the 2026 Electoral Act as the nation looks toward the 2027 polls.
