Court Declares Otunba Jimi Adebisi Lawal Authentic ADC Governorship Candidate in Ogun
A Federal High Court sitting in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has declared Otunba Jimi Adebisi Lawal the authentic governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the forthcoming election in the state.
The judgment, delivered on Thursday, held that the primary process that produced Lawal complied with the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution, rejecting the challenge filed by his rival, Dr Collins Ogundipe.
Justice Adeyemi, presiding over the case marked FHC/AB/CS/97/2026, stated that the primary election was validly conducted and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The court further ruled that the exercise satisfied all statutory requirements and remains the only lawful governorship primary recognised under the law.
Consequently, Judge Adeyemi declared Lawal the authentic ADC governorship candidate and directed INEC to recognise him and reflect his name in its official records as the party’s flag bearer.
Party Leaders Welcome the Verdict
Ogun State ADC Chairman Femi Soluade described the ruling as a victory for democracy and an opportunity to put internal divisions behind the party.
Soluade urged party members to close ranks and work together ahead of the election, expressing gratitude that the judgment had finally resolved the lingering controversy over the governorship ticket.
Lawal Attributes Victory to Divine Intervention
Reacting to the decision, Lawal said the outcome was an act of divine intervention after months of uncertainty.
“Alhamdulillah. I am exceedingly grateful to Almighty God. Without God’s grace, nothing is possible. Today’s victory is by His grace,” he stated.
He maintained that he had won the primary convincingly but endured anxiety after the result became disputed, adding that he had experienced sleepless nights since May because he believed he had been cheated.
Lawal commended the judiciary for its commitment to the rule of law and the delivery of justice, describing the judgment as a restoration of his rightful mandate.
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