Hashim Challenges INEC Over Presidential Candidacy Exclusion

Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, the presidential candidate of the Accord Party, has publicly declared that his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election cannot be nullified by any administrative action from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This statement follows his exclusion from INEC's final list of presidential candidates published over the weekend.

In a statement made in Abuja, Hashim emphasized that the issue is now a matter for judicial determination, asserting his position as the duly nominated candidate of the Accord Party. He criticized INEC's authority, stating that Nigeria's democracy does not grant the commission the final say over political party candidates.

Hashim referenced past instances, such as the last Osun governorship election, where courts intervened to restore candidates previously excluded by INEC. He confirmed that the matter is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where he is seeking an order to compel the Accord Party to recognize him as its presidential candidate and to transmit his name to INEC.

The case has been heard and is reserved for judgment.