The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed Friday, November 13, 2026, for judgment in a suit involving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ladi Adebutu and INEC.
The case challenges the Independent National Electoral Commission’s decision to exclude Adebutu from the final candidates’ list for Ogun State’s 2027 governorship election.
Justice Peter Lifu fixed the date after parties adopted their final written addresses.
The suit seeks an order compelling INEC to recognise Adebutu as the PDP governorship candidate.
INEC has defended its decision to exclude Adebutu from the candidates’ list.
The commission claimed that his name was missing from the PDP membership register submitted to it.
In its counter-affidavit, INEC said its ICT department searched the register before publishing the final list.
The commission stated that it found the name of Adebutu’s running mate, Kolapo Lateefat Oyeyemi.
However, it could not find Adebutu’s name or matching personal details.
INEC also questioned the membership documents submitted by the PDP. It alleged that the flash drive attached to Adebutu’s court filings contained different records.
The electoral commission also challenged Adebutu’s claim to membership serial number 1536.
According to INEC, the original register assigned that number to another member, Lugboso Sunday Seun.
The commission maintained that it followed due process before publishing the candidates’ list.
The dispute centres on Section 77 of the Electoral Act 2026. The provision addresses political party membership registers and their submission to INEC.
The court’s decision could determine Adebutu’s immediate political position ahead of the 2027 election.
INEC had earlier published a final list containing 13 governorship candidates. However, Adebutu’s name was absent.
The PDP and its candidate are now seeking judicial intervention to challenge the exclusion.
Political stakeholders in Ogun State will closely monitor Friday’s judgment.
The ruling could also influence the party’s preparations for the governorship election.
Until the court delivers its decision, Adebutu’s exclusion remains under legal challenge.
