- Adebutu: Justice Has Prevailed, Relief Is Here
- Says Nothing Will Distract Us
Former Ogun State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ladi Adebutu, has welcomed a Federal High Court judgment ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore his name to the list of candidates for the 2027 governorship election within 24 hours.
Adebutu described the ruling as a victory for the rule of law, due process and democratic principles, declaring that justice had prevailed after his name was omitted from the commission’s published list of candidates.
TheMatrix Newspaper reports that the Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, on Friday reportedly directed INEC to reinstate Adebutu’s name, a development that could resolve the dispute surrounding his eligibility to participate in the 2027 Ogun governorship election.
Reacting to the judgment in a statement, Adebutu said he had consistently maintained that the circumstances surrounding his PDP membership, registration and emergence as the party’s governorship candidate were clear.
He said the party remained confident in its position and pursued the matter through the appropriate legal channels rather than resorting to speculation or premature conclusions.
Thanks Wike, PDP Leadership
The PDP chieftain expressed appreciation to the party’s national leadership, particularly the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whom he described as the party’s national leader, and its National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, for their support and confidence throughout the legal battle.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Ogun State PDP leadership, party members, supporters and residents who stood by him during the controversy.
Adebutu said their patience, encouragement and confidence had remained invaluable throughout the period.
Says Judgment Reinforces Democratic Principles
Commending the judiciary, Adebutu said the ruling had reinforced the importance of independent democratic institutions and the need for political disputes to be resolved strictly in accordance with the law.
He maintained that every matter deserved to be determined on its merits, insisting that political interests and affiliations should not override due process.
“Our democratic institutions must remain strong, independent and committed to upholding the law, regardless of political interests or affiliations,” he said.
Shifts Focus To 2027 Governorship Election
Despite welcoming the court decision, Adebutu said his political mission extended beyond the legal dispute, stressing that his immediate priority remained engaging the people of Ogun State and presenting solutions to the challenges confronting the state.
He said his ambition was to build a future defined by opportunity, accountability and inclusive development.
According to him, the struggle was bigger than an individual or political contest, adding that it was fundamentally about the welfare of Ogun residents and their right to participate meaningfully in choosing their leaders.
Reiterating his political slogan, “OGUN FOR OGUN”, Adebutu said it represented a commitment to leadership that prioritises the interests of the people and works towards improving their lives.
He urged supporters to remain calm, focused and resolute, while conducting themselves with dignity and respect for democratic values.
“We have a state to build, a people to serve and a future to secure. Nothing will distract us from that responsibility,” he declared.
He ended his reaction with the rallying expressions, “RELIEF IS HERE!” and “ITURA DÉ.”
