The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a landmark ruling affirming Chief Olusola Nehemiah and Ezekiel Awude as the official governorship and deputy governorship candidates of the Labour Party (LP) for the forthcoming Ondo State gubernatorial election.
In a judgment delivered on Friday by Justice Emeka Nwite, the court mandated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize and publish Nehemiah and Awude’s names as the lawful candidates for the election scheduled for November 16.
Justice Nwite found that the second primary election, which selected Nehemiah and Awude, was valid and met all legal requirements. He highlighted evidence that Nehemiah had paid N20 million into the United Bank for Africa (UBA) account of the Labour Party for his nomination form, which was duly issued. Additionally, the court noted that Nehemiah had transferred N5 million to Olorunfemi Ayodele Festus as part of the withdrawal process from the gubernatorial race.
The judge criticized the actions of the Julius Abure-led Labour Party leadership, stating it was improper to disown the fresh primary election results. Justice Nwite emphasized that Nehemiah and Awude are entitled to all recognition, rights, and privileges associated with their candidacy.
With this ruling, the stage is set for the Labour Party to participate in the upcoming gubernatorial contest in Ondo State.
