Confusion As ADC Suspends Collation, Announcement Of Presidential Primary Election Results

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May 27, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

African Democratic Congress, (ADC), citing Eid-el-Kabir celebration, has abruptly suspended the collation of its 2027 presidential primary election results.

The shocking announcement was made late Tuesday night by Ikechi Emenike, chairman of the ADC Presidential Primary Election Committee, amid growing tension within the opposition party.

According to Emenike, the suspension became necessary to allow Muslim members of the party fully participate in the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, while also giving enough time for returning officers facing travel difficulties to arrive in Abuja.

In results collated so far, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was ahead of his rivals – Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen – as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) began the collation of results for the presidential primary last night.

The former vice president was declared winner in Yobe and Zamfara states. He was leading in Adamawa, Sokoto, Kaduna, Edo, Enugu and Nasarawa states as results were trickling in from the wards.

Presidential Primary Election Committee Chairman, who doubles as the returning officer for Zamfara, Muhammad Musa, declared Atiku Abubakar winner in the state.

On his part, former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, rejected the outcome of the party’s presidential primary election, describing the results collated from across the country as “concocted.”

Amaechi, one of the three contenders for the ADC presidential ticket alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, announced his position in a statement posted on his verified X handle, @ChibuikeAmaechi.

The former Minister of Transportation alleged that widespread voter disenfranchisement marred the exercise conducted across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory on Monday.

“Following reports of widespread voter disenfranchisement in most parts of the country during the African Democratic Congress Presidential Primaries yesterday, I unequivocally reject the concocted results being announced.

“I had initially stated that I will only accept the outcome of the primaries if the process was free, fair, and transparent, and I stand by my word.

“I will not accept results from a process that does not reflect the values that the ADC had pledged to uphold, to rescue Nigerians from the impunity and gross mismanagement that our country is currently facing in the hands of the ruling party,” he wrote.

Amaechi further claimed that a significant number of party members were denied the opportunity to participate in the exercise.

“There’s no way that about eighty per cent of members of the party were not allowed to vote, and you expect me to accept such results. Then what makes us different from the others?” he asked.

“The whole idea of the ADC was to give the Nigerian people a platform, to amplify the voices of the downtrodden, and make Nigeria a better place for everyone irrespective of backgrounds, ethnicity, or religion.

“A party that criticises the ruling APC and INEC for vote buying, rigging and writing of results, cannot be engaged in vote buying, writing of results, and other electoral malpractices that leads to the disenfranchisement of voters who are party members. This is not acceptable,” he stated.

Hayatu-Deen had boycotted the collation and declaration ceremony citing alleged vote rigging.

Taking to his verified X handle, @Mohayatudeen, the economist-turned-politician said, “I will not be attending the announcement of the ADC Presidential Election Results today.

” I am concerned by reports from across the country of widespread vote rigging, some of which I myself (sic) observed, and will therefore be taking advice on my next steps.”

However, Hayatu-Deen did not pointedly name those behind the rigging.

Uzodimma Hails Muslim Faithful At Eid-el-Kabir, Celebrates Children

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The Source

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May 27, 2026

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Governor Hope Uzodimma — Senator Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo State

Governorship Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has said that no time was better suited for Nigerians in general and our Muslim brothers and sisters in particular to exhibit values of obedience, unity, selflessness, faith, patriotism and commitment to greater good of humanity than now.

Those words were used generously to draw the attention of the Muslim community who are celebrating this year’s Eid-el- Kabir, of the need to support the ongoing economic reforms and developmental ideals of the President Bola Tinubu administration as the country gets set to reap the benefits in no time.

Uzodimma also has some words of advice and encouragement for our children as they mark May 27 Children’s Day.

The Governor urged them not to depart from the moral compass which their family and society have drawn up to aid in their upbringing.

Reminding our children that such remains the foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and progressive future for all, Uzodimma further encouraged them to remain hopeful, confident and focused as they go about the life journey.

Taking to his social media handle, Uzodimma who is also the Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum, in his Eid-el- Kabir message to the Muslims wrote: “I felicitate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Muslim Ummah in Imo State and across Nigeria as they celebrate this year’s Eid el Kabir. This sacred festival of sacrifice teaches us the enduring values of obedience, faith, selflessness, unity, and commitment to the greater good of humanity.

“As our Muslim brothers and sisters commemorate this important occasion, I encourage them to extend the spirit of sacrifice in their patriotism to our great nation by continuing to support the economic reforms and developmental initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Though the journey may demand patience and resilience, collective sacrifice and national unity remain essential to building a stronger, more prosperous, and inclusive Nigeria for present and future generations.

“I wish everyone a peaceful, joyful, and blessed Eid el Kabir celebration.”

On the May 27 Children’s Day, Uzodimma also wrote: “As we commemorate Children’s Day, I celebrate our children who continue to look up to us for their dreams to come through, who continue to grow in truth and with the wisdom required to sustain the future we are securing for them.

“To every child, I encourage you to remain hopeful, confident, and focused. Never depart from the moral upbringing of the family and society, for it remains the foundation for a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive future for all.”

The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 27 and Thursday May 28 to enable the Muslims celebrate the feast of Eid-el-Kabir.

The Muslim holiday however coincided with Children’s Day celebration on May 27.

Unity Cup: Super Eagles Zoom Into Final, Defeat Zimbabwe

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Akinwale Kasali

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May 27, 2026

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By Akinwale Kasali

The Super Eagles of Nigeria has recorded a 2-0 victory over the Warriors of Zimbabwe, to zoom into the 2026 Unity Cup Final.

The match played by a remarkably under-strength Super Eagles team took full command of the Charlton Athletic Stadium (The Valley) on Tuesday, handing stinging 2-0 defeat to their Southern African counterparts.

Coach Eric Chelle had paraded a barely-recognizable squad in the first game in his defence of the trophy that he won with the three-time African champions a year ago, with goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, defender Chibueze Oputa and forward, Femi Azeez earning their first caps for the country.

Azeez, who plays for Millwall FC in the English Championship, swiftly put Nigeria in the lead after only five minutes, when he finished off a great team move with a left-footed rocket that goalkeeper Future Sibanda could not stop.

Azeez and USA-based midfielder Alhassan Yusuf came pretty close four minutes later, but Sibanda was able to ward off the danger this time.

Eight minutes later, Marshall Munetsi had sight of the Nigeria goal, but saw his shot blocked by Turkey-based centre-back, Chibuike Nwaiwu.

Nwaiwu had combined beautifully well with Czech Republic-based Igoh Ogbu and home-boys, Oputa and Igboke to make the Nigeria defence impregnable.

Jordan Zemura shot over the sticks in the 32nd minute, and 10 minutes later, Nwaiwu had to produce a solid tackle inside the box to stop the advancing Junior Zindoga.

Germany-based forward, Philip Otele and midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi came close late on in the first half, but the Warriors kept the scoreline low going into recess.

In the second half, Azeez netted his and Nigeria’s second of the night after beating Sibanda in the box following another swift team move, with Otele finding Terem Moffi who then located the Millwall man in the vital area.

In the 71st minute, Okonkwo had to stretch full length to deny the Warriors, as they poured forward in numbers searching to minimize the damage.

As Nigeria firmly kept control of the proceedings, Coach Chelle gave opportunities to Tosin Oyedokun, Owen Oseni, Rafiu Durosinmi and Aderemi Adeoye to also earn their first caps for Nigeria.

In Saturday’s Final at the same venue, the Super Eagles will take on the winner of Wednesday’s second semi-final between last year’s runners-up Jamaica and India.

Northern Christians Sue For Unity Amidst Worsening Banditry Activities

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Ayodele Oni

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May 27, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

The Northern Christian Association, (NCA), has counseled that continued banditry in the country should not be allowed to divide Nigerians.

The association urged political leaders across party lines to place national interest above personal ambition as the country gradually approaches another political season.

NCA appealed to Nigerians to use the Eid-el-Kabir celebration as a period of sober reflection on the state of the nation, particularly amid rising insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and growing social tension.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the association congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, describing the festival as a symbol of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and submission to the will of God.

The association stressed that the difficult realities confronting Nigeria require unity of purpose, patriotism, and sincere commitment from all segments of society.

According to the NCAA, Northern Nigeria has endured years of terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, communal conflicts, and other forms of violence that have displaced families and devastated communities.

It noted that such painful experiences should not deepen division among citizens, but rather strengthen the collective resolve of Nigerians to pursue peace, reconciliation, and national development.

The NCA maintained that Christians and Muslims share a common destiny and collective responsibility toward the stability and future of Nigeria, having coexisted for generations as neighbours and partners in nation-building.

The association therefore urged Nigerians to reject hatred, incitement, intolerance, and every form of division capable of undermining peaceful coexistence and national unity.

It further called on both Christians and Muslims to continue working together in promoting peace, justice, understanding, and national cohesion, insisting that Nigeria’s diversity should remain a source of strength rather than an instrument for political manipulation or conflict.

Speaking on the nation’s political climate, the association urged political actors to conduct their activities with maturity, restraint, and respect for democratic principles.

“Nigerians deserve issue-based politics that promote peace, stability, development, and national unity rather than actions capable of creating unnecessary tension or throwing the country into avoidable chaos,” the statement said.

The association also reminded public office holders that leadership remains a sacred trust entrusted to individuals by God for the service and welfare of humanity.

It urged leaders to discharge their responsibilities with humility, accountability, justice, and the fear of God, noting that every leader would ultimately give account of their stewardship before God.

The NCA equally encouraged Nigerians to remember widows, orphans, displaced persons, and families facing economic hardship during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, stressing that the essence of the festival lies in sacrifice, compassion, generosity, and care for humanity.

The association prayed for lasting peace, healing, reconciliation, stability, and progress in Nigeria as Muslims across the country celebrate Eid-el-Kabir

INEC Clears 13 Political Parties For Ekiti Gov. Election

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Ayodele Oni

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May 27, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that 13 political parties are on the ballot paper for the June 20 off season governorship election in Ekiti state.

The National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mallam Mohammed Kudu, spoke at INEC Forum for Media Executives, in Ado-Ekiti as part of preparations for the off-cycle governorship poll.

He described the Ekiti governorship election as an important political test ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kudu noted that the election would be conducted across the state’s 16 local government areas, 177 wards, and 2,445 polling units, with 13 political parties expected to participate.

According to him, the election is coming at a time of growing concerns over voter apathy, vote buying, political violence, misinformation, and declining public confidence in democratic institutions.

Kudu called on media organisations to intensify voter education in English, Yoruba, and other local dialects, particularly on the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), and voting procedures.

He also reminded journalists of the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 regarding balanced coverage, election-day broadcast restrictions, and penalties for vote buying and other electoral offences.

In his welcome address, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, called for stronger collaboration with media professionals in the fight against fake news, misinformation, and hate speech ahead of the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election.

He described the media as a critical partner in protecting democracy, stressing that the credibility of any election depends largely on accurate, balanced, and professional reporting.

Omoseyindemi disclosed that INEC had intensified preparations for the election through voter education, logistics planning for sensitive and non-sensitive materials, training of election personnel, and continuous engagement with security agencies, political parties, civil society organisations, and transport unions to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and inclusive electoral process.

He, however, expressed concern over the increasing spread of fake news, manipulated videos, misleading headlines, and unverified election reports, warning that such misinformation could create panic, erode public trust, and threaten electoral peace.

He urged media executives, reporters, producers, and on-air personalities to verify election-related information with INEC before publication or broadcast, amplify official voter education messages, promote issue-based campaigns, and avoid sensational or inflammatory reports capable of heating up the polity.

The Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Mrs. Victoria Eta-Messi, explained that the forum was organised to strengthen collaboration between INEC and media professionals, provide updates on election preparations, and clarify electoral processes, timelines, and legal frameworks.

Fmr Ondo First Lady, Anyanwu-Akeredolu Drops Senatorial Ambition, Opts For House Of Reps Contest

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Ayodele Oni

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May 27, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

Citing interest and peace within the party, wife of the former Governor of Ondo state, Dr Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has dropped her ambition to contest Owerri senatorial seat on the ticket of Labour Party (LP).

Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has instead announced that she has secured her Certificate of Clearance as the Labour Party candidate’s House of Representatives seat for Owerri Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement, the former First Lady of Ondo State said her decision to step down from the Senatorial race and contest for the House of Representatives was taken in the interest of party unity and stability.

According to her, the move became necessary as the Labour Party works to rebuild after a prolonged period of internal crisis and legal battles.

Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu noted that although some supporters might be disappointed over her inability to secure the senatorial ticket, she chose to remain committed to the collective interest of the party.

She stressed the need for sacrifice, cooperation, and unity in building a stronger political platform capable of achieving victory in 2027.

The Labour Party candidate also reaffirmed her commitment to advancing female representation in elective positions and providing what she described as compassionate, courageous, and purposeful leadership.

She added that her mission remains unchanged regardless of the legislative chamber she eventually serves in at the National Assembly.

Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu urged her supporters and the people of Owerri Federal Constituency not to lose hope but to remain steadfast and committed to the political journey ahead.

She appreciated her family, political associates, supporters, and constituents for their continued encouragement and support.

Tinubu: All Forces Of Evil Will Be Defeated

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James Orji

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May 27, 2026

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Being full text of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Nationwide Broadcast To Mark Muslim Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

I extend warm felicitations to our Muslim brothers and sisters across Nigeria and worldwide as they celebrate the glorious Eid-el-Kabir, the Festival of Sacrifice.

We give glory to Almighty God for preserving our lives to witness this important celebration once again.

Eid-el-Kabir reminds us of the enduring virtues exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim—faith, obedience, and the willingness to sacrifice for a higher purpose. This sacred festival calls on all Muslims, and indeed all Nigerians and the whole of humanity, to embrace sacrifice, selflessness, unity, and compassion for our fellow human beings.

One central lesson of Eid-el-Kabir is the call to show mercy and compassion, regardless of race, ethnicity, or creed. There is no greater example of duty and devotion than Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to offer his only son, Ismail, as a sacrifice to Allah.

As a nation, we are on a journey of reconstruction and renewal. The reforms we have undertaken are challenging but necessary to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria for future generations.

Just as sacrifice brings reward, I am happy that the sacrifices and efforts we have made over the past three years have yielded a more stable economy, making our country a preferred investment destination that will drive job creation and economic growth. The walk through the dark tunnel is over, and the light is here.

I am confident that, by the Grace of God, the reforms we have diligently pursued will continue to yield improved security and greater opportunities for all.

I am aware that, despite the best efforts of our security and intelligence agencies—including the recent elimination of a wanted ISIS leader—heartless terrorists and bandits still attack some communities. I assure you: you are neither abandoned nor forgotten. We will ultimately defeat all the forces of evil.

To our Muslim faithful, I urge you to use this sacred occasion to pray for our country, for peace in our communities, and for wisdom for those in leadership.

Let us pray that those who commit crimes among us may rethink and abandon their evil ways, or face the full weight of the law.

Let us also reach out to the less privileged, share with our neighbours, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that unite us as one people.

My administration remains committed to building a Nigeria where all citizens can live in peace, worship freely, and pursue their dreams without fear.

We will continue to invest in security, infrastructure, agriculture, and human capital to fulfil the great promise of our great nation.

On behalf of the government, I wish you all a peaceful, joyous, and blessed Eid al-Kabir. May Allah accept our sacrifices and prayers, and may He continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Eid Mubarak! Happy Sallah!

Labour Party Celebrates With Muslim Faithful On Eid-el-Kabir

By

The Source

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May 27, 2026

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Nenadi Esther Usman - Labour Party Chairman

The Labour Party has felicitated with all Muslim faithful on the celebration of the Eid-el-Kabir (Eid al-Adha).

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, the LP while extending its good wishes on this occasion said:

“As Muslims in Nigeria and across the world commemorate the sacred festival of Eid-el-Kabir (Eid al-Adha), the Labour Party extends its warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to the entire Ummah on this solemn and spiritually significant occasion.

“Eid al-Adha symbolizes the profound faith, obedience, sacrifice, and total submission exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him) in his total devotion to the will of Almighty Allah. These enduring virtues remain timeless lessons not only for the faithful but also for leaders and citizens alike as we strive to build a more just, peaceful, and compassionate society.

“Beyond the festivities, this holy season calls for deep reflection, renewed spirituality, selflessness, and greater commitment to the service of humanity. It is a period to seek the mercy and guidance of Allah (SWT), strengthen our bonds with one another, and recommit ourselves to the ideals of love, humility, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

“At a time our nation continues to grapple with economic hardship, insecurity, hunger, and growing social and ethno-religious tensions, the values embodied by Eid al-Adha have become even more urgent and relevant. We therefore urge Nigerians to embrace compassion, generosity, and mutual understanding, especially towards the less privileged and vulnerable in society.

“The Labour Party also calls on those entrusted with leadership and public responsibility to govern with justice, fairness, equity, and empathy in line with the noble teachings of Islam, which place great emphasis on the welfare and protection of the people, ideals that the Labour Party vigorously pursues. This is a defining moment for leaders at all levels to rise above selfish interests and work sincerely towards alleviating the suffering of Nigerians.

“As we celebrate this blessed festival, we pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) accepts our sacrifices and acts of worship, grants peace and prosperity to our nation, and continues to guide us on the path of righteousness.

“Eid Mubarak to all Nigerians. May this celebration bring abundant blessings, divine mercy, peace, and renewed hope to every home.”

“Dear Media Friends, We At INEC Distance The Commission From APC’s Claim Of 12.9m Registered Members”

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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May 26, 2026

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Professor Josiah Amupitan INEC Chairman — Prof Joash Amupitan, INEC Chairman.

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has distanced itself from the figure of the digital membership registers of political parties recently made public by the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressive Congress APC Prof Nentawe Yilwaltda.

On an Arise Television’s News programme to defend the seemingly outrageous high number of votes purportedly garnered by President Bola Tinubu at the just concluded primaries of the party, Yilwaltda had claimed that the APC verified and submitted a whopping 12 .9 million registered members after its registration exercise.

The APC National Chairman, while also giving the number of registered members of other parties, claimed that the combined numbers of opposition party members is not up to that of the APC .

According to his breakdown, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has 2.4 million members, the African Democratic Congress, ADC, 1.6 million, Labour Party, LP, 1.3 million members ,and Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, 700,00 members.

” We ( APC) have about 12.9.million registered members that were submitted to the INEC. Let me give you data . APC submitted.12.9.million registered members .

” PDP submitted 1.6 million registered members. The ADC

submitted 1.6 million registered members, Labour Party submitted.1.3 million registered members, and NDC submitted, 700,000 registered members.

” So, these are the data. If you put all these political parties together, they don’t add up to APC’s registered members.

All the political parties, this number I have counted, they are not up to the number that APC registered.

“But even the most important thing in our own case is that we have verified data. The data of our members are verified by NIMC . We synchronised the data with NIMC”, Yilwaltda claimed.

He emphasized that the numbers of votes polled by the President during the primaries were nothing extraordinary going by the figure of registered members of the party.

But apparently scandalized, the INEC said the figure reeled out by the APC National Chairman never emanated from it .

The spokesperson for the INEC Chairman, Dayo Oketola, in a short statement on Tuesday, May 26, informed that the data so released by the APC National Chairman remains strange to the Commission.

” Dear esteemed media colleagues, please note that this is certainly not from INEC . Thanks” Oketola stated .

Osun Gov. Adeleke Says Appeal Court Has Saved Accord Party From Bad People, Lauds Judiciary

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Ayodele Oni

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May 26, 2026

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Ademola Adeleke - Osun State Governor — Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State.

By Ayodele Oni

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has opined that those scheming to disenfranchise and block Accord Party members from August polls have failed with the Appeal Court judgement.

The governor described the judiciary as the last hope and refuge of the citizens as he commended the Court of Appeal for ordering stay of proceedings in a suit seeking to deregister Accord and other parties.

In a statement, the governor hailed the presiding justices for their professionalism and undiluted commitment to fair and equitable administration of justice.

He described the Court ruling as a just action designed to protect the rights and privileges of all stakeholders, calling the Justices the preserver of citizens’ rights as guaranteed by the constitution.

“I am using this opportunity to commend the judiciary for protecting the sanctity and integrity of our democracy from deliberate abuse by anti-democratic elements.

“On behalf of the good people of Osun State, we thank the justices and the entire judiciary.

“From 2018 till date, I have been a beneficiary of judicial interventions which protect my rights and privileges when faced with constant abuse and attacks on democratic rights.

“The judiciary is the last hope of the oppressed, the refuge for the weak.

“The judgement by the Justices of the Court of Appeal further reinforces our faith in the judiciary, further rekindles our trust in the democratic process.

“As we escape the trap of those seeking to avoid free and fair elections, I congratulate Accord leaders locally and nationally.

“We should now redouble our campaigns to secure an overwhelming victory on August 15. We must be bold, strong and resolute within the confine of the law to sustain and extend our mandate.

“As we have the people and God with us, we won’t succumb to intimidation and harassment. August 15th is for the continuity of our Imole administration.

“We will legally resist any attempt to derail the democratic process,” the governor decared.

At the resumed hearing of the appeal number CA/ABJ/CV/569/2026 between Accord versus Incorporated Trustees of National Forum of Former Legislators & 6 Ors, counsel to the appellant, Musibau Adetunbi SAN had informed the Court of three pending applications.

They include an Application for Stay of Further Proceedings filed on 4th May, 2026; an Application seeking Departure from the Rules filed on 4th May, 2026; and an Application seeking leave to amend the Notice of Appeal filed on 14th May, 2026.

In a bench ruling, the Court held that the essence of an application for stay of proceedings is to preserve the res pending the determination of the appeal and to ensure that the appeal, if successful, is not rendered nugatory.

The Court further held that having considered the grounds of appeal together with the affidavit evidence placed before it, and particularly in view of the absence of substantial opposition from the Respondents, the Appellant had placed sufficient materials before the Court to warrant the exercise of its discretion in their favour pursuant to Order 4 rules 10 and 11 of the Court of Appeal Rules, 2021.

The Court also made reference to Appeal No. CA/ABJ/CV/444/2026 – Barr. Maxwell Mgbudem v. Accord, being a matter of similar facts wherein the Court of Appeal had equally granted an application for stay of proceedings in similar circumstances.

The Court accordingly granted the Appellant’s Motion for Stay of Proceedings.The appeal was thereafter adjourned to 27th October, 2026 for hearing.