Court removes NDC candidate for Oredo, names Efosa as rightful flag‑bearer

Court decision on NDC primary dispute

Judges at the Federal High Court in Benin City, Edo State, issued a verdict on 27 October 2026 that stripped Hon. Uyi Frank Omosigho from the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) ticket for the Oredo Federal Constituency in the 2027 general election. The court, presided over by Justice Professor Chuka Obizor, declared Osagie Efosa Omo the authentic winner of the NDC primary for the same seat. Case FHC/B/C/60/2026, filed by Efosa against five respondents including Omosigho, the NDC, INEC, and Engr. David Olukoga, who served as the party’s state chairman and head of the state primaries and nominations committees, along with Fredrick Endorokeme Owotorufa, who also led those committees.

Background

The dispute arose after the NDC’s primary election for the Oredo Federal Constituency. Efosa, a former assembly member, contested the party’s decision that Omosigho had won the primary. He filed the case seeking recognition as the rightful candidate. Justice Obizor’s decision condemned INEC’s obstructive behavior in pre-election issues, noting that depending on internal party processes to settle primary conflicts can hinder and postpone candidates who seek legal remedies. Testimony from ward returning officers and chairmen in all 12 Oredo wards confirmed that Efosa had taken part in the primary election. The court found that the NDC leadership failed to meet the required standard of proof that Omosigho had participated in and won the primary, whereas Efosa’s participation was supported by sufficient evidence. The court directed the NDC to officially announce Efosa as the primary victor and submit his name to INEC as the party’s nominee for the Oredo Federal Constituency.

Why it matters

The decision directly affects the NDC’s representation in the House of Representatives for the 2027 general election. Omosigho, who is currently a member of the Edo State House of Assembly representing Oredo East, had been the party’s nominee but is now removed from the ticket. Efosa, who has thanked Senator Seriake Dickson, the party’s national leader, for his backing, will now represent the NDC in the constituency. The ruling also underscores the role of the judiciary in resolving intra‑party disputes and highlights concerns about the conduct of primary elections within Nigerian political parties. By mandating the NDC to submit Efosa’s name to INEC, the court’s decision will influence the party’s strategy and campaign preparations ahead of the January 16, 2027, election.

What happens next

The NDC is required to submit Efosa’s name to INEC as the party’s candidate for the Oredo Federal Constituency. The court’s judgment does not preclude further legal action; Omosigho has indicated that he will seek review by the Court of Appeal. Both parties have called for calm and unity among supporters while awaiting the outcome of any subsequent proceedings. The ruling is expected to shape the NDC’s campaign in Oredo and may affect the party’s overall performance in the 2027 general election.