Court Orders INEC to Recognize Olawepo-Hashim as Candidate

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Mohammed Umar, ruled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must recognize Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the Accord Party's presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. This decision, made on a Monday, mandates the party to submit Olawepo-Hashim’s name to INEC, citing a violation of Section 86 of the Electoral Act 2026 due to the party's failure to submit his name after he won the May 30 primary election as the sole aspirant.

Jagunmolu Moses, an Accord Party chieftain, described the ruling as a significant setback for the faction aligned with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, which had opted not to field a presidential candidate, interpreted as support for President Bola Tinubu. Moses indicated that the judgment raises questions about the faction's political strategy and whether it will appeal the ruling.

He also pointed out potential structural risks for the Accord Party ahead of the elections.