By Erewunmi Peace

The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure has affirmed Wole Oluyede as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2026 election in Ekiti State.

In its ruling delivered on Thursday, the appellate court overturned an earlier judgment of the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, which had nullified the PDP primary election that produced Oluyede as the party’s flag bearer.

The appeal court held that the primary election conducted by the PDP complied with the party’s constitution and the provisions of the Electoral Act. The panel of justices therefore declared Oluyede the validly nominated candidate of the party for the forthcoming governorship poll.

The decision resolves the legal dispute surrounding the PDP primary election held in November 2025, which had been challenged in court by aggrieved members of the party.

Following the judgment, leaders and supporters of the PDP welcomed the ruling, describing it as a victory for internal democracy and the rule of law.

Political analysts say the ruling could strengthen the party’s preparations ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State as political activities gradually intensify in the state.

More reactions from party stakeholders are expected in the coming days as the political landscape in Ekiti begins to take shape ahead of the poll.