By 9jaeye 
In a surprising turn of events, Nigeria’s Court of Appeal has ruled against Olusola Ebiseni, disqualifying him as the Labour Party’s candidate for the upcoming Ondo governorship election set for November 16, 2024. This decision, announced by a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, led by Justice Hamma Barka, throws the Labour Party’s campaign into turmoil.
The panel, with Justice Adebukola Banjoko delivering the lead judgment, unanimously sided with the Labour Party’s appeal against Ebiseni and two others. Unlike the earlier ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize Ebiseni as the Labour Party candidate, the Court of Appeal now asserts otherwise. Justice Banjoko assured the parties involved that a Certified True Copy of the judgment would be issued promptly, leaving no room for ambiguity. Justice Abba Mohammed also supported the decision, underscoring the appellate court’s firm stance.
Previously, the Federal High Court, under Justice Emeka Nwite, had validated a second Labour Party primary that declared Ebiseni as the governorship candidate. Following this, the court ordered INEC to list Ebiseni and his running mate, Ezekiel Awude, as legitimate candidates. However, the Labour Party strongly opposed this outcome, insisting that Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi remained their chosen candidate. The party argued that Ebiseni lacked eligibility, pointing out that he had failed to officially switch parties, as he did not resign from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Labour Party’s Internal Conflicts Continue
As the Labour Party’s November election campaign faces increasing challenges, the internal conflicts regarding candidate selection persist. By overturning Ebiseni’s candidacy, the Court of Appeal’s decision intensifies the urgency for party leaders to resolve their differences.
Immediate Future of Labour Party’s Ondo Candidacy
With less than a month until the election, the Labour Party must quickly consolidate around a new candidate. Failure to do so could compromise its chances in Ondo, ultimately affecting voter confidence and support.
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