Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Press Conference
- Legal Standpoint
- Party Rights
- Consultation
- Democratic Values
- Party Confidence
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, Oluwole Oluyede, has pledged to contest his exclusion from the list of candidates released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in advance of the election.
Speaking on Wednesday at a press conference in Ikere-Ekiti, his hometown, Oluyede asserted that INEC does not have the constitutional authority to omit his name, emphasizing that the electoral body was properly informed of the PDP governorship primary and monitored the process in accordance with electoral laws.
He characterized the situation as surprising, pointing out that INEC supervised the primary election and even acknowledged his candidacy in legal documents.
According to him, there is no court order or injunction preventing him from running.
“I was taken aback because my emergence as the PDP candidate was witnessed by INEC. They oversaw it and submitted a report,” he stated.
Oluyede asserted that INEC does not possess the authority to decide a party’s nominee, noting that this responsibility lies with political parties.
He revealed that he is currently engaging in extensive consultations, including discussions with INEC and party stakeholders, to determine the best course of action, while reassuring his supporters that there is no reason for concern.
“To my knowledge, there is no court injunction or order that should prevent me from participating in that election,” he mentioned, expressing confidence in appearing on the ballot.
The PDP candidate also condemned efforts to hinder candidates from contesting, labeling such actions as undemocratic and a violation of voters’ rights.
“Elections are intended to provide individuals the chance to select their government… It is unjust to disenfranchise those who wish to express their will,” he remarked.
Reaffirming his faith in the PDP, Oluyede stated that the party has resolved its internal issues and is united and ready to secure victory in the upcoming governorship election in Ekiti State.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oluwole Oluyede's stance on his exclusion from the INEC candidate list?
Oluwole Oluyede plans to challenge his exclusion, asserting that INEC lacks the authority to omit his name and that he is confident there is no legal barrier to his candidacy.
How does Oluyede view the role of INEC in political nominations?
Oluyede believes that INEC does not have the power to determine a party’s nominee, which he claims is the responsibility of the political parties themselves.
What are Oluyede's thoughts on the democratic process?
He views elections as essential for allowing people to select their government and criticizes any actions that disenfranchise voters as undemocratic.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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