Federal High Court Compels INEC to Recognize Adeniyi Mustapha as SDP Candidate in Osun
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered INEC to recognize Salawu-Adeniyi Mustapha Olaitan as the Social Democratic Party’s candidate for the upcoming Osun governorship election. Justice M.G. Umar ruled on 24 June 2026 that once a valid party primary is held under INEC supervision, the commission cannot reject a duly nominated candidate. The court affirmed that Mustapha emerged from the SDP primary held on 15 December 2025 and declared INEC’s refusal to publish his name illegal, unconstitutional and ultra vires. It directed the commission to include his name and the SDP logo on ballot papers. Reliefs granted include declarations of valid nomination, perpetual injunctions preventing INEC from removing his name, and an order compelling publication of his candidacy. The ruling also confirmed that the SDP National Chairman has lawful authority to submit a candidate’s name under the Electoral Act. Legal counsel described the judgment as a victory for democracy, party supremacy in nominations and the rule of law. The decision is expected to set an important precedent on the interpretation of Sections 29 and 84 of the Electoral Act.
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