A Federal High Court in Benin has been asked to rule on a controversial political dispute involving prominent candidates and electoral officials.
Gatekeepers News reports rhay Festus Edogun, a candidate in the upcoming Edo Central Senatorial District by-election, has filed a lawsuit challenging the validity of the primary election held on July 21, 2025.
In an originating summons filed before the court, Edogun claims that his disqualification from the primary was unlawful, rendering the election null and void.
He is seeking a court order to declare the primary election unconstitutional and invalid. Additionally, Edogun is asking the court for a perpetual injunction to prevent the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising Prince Joseph Okojie as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the August 16, 2025, election.
According to legal documents filed by the plaintiff’s lawyer, Senior Advocate K.O. Obamogie, Edogun alleges that the party’s actions contravened both constitutional provisions and the PDP’s internal electoral guidelines.
Citing Sections 65(1)(a), 65(2)(a) & (b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as well as paragraphs 1, 2(a)-(c) of the PDP’s 2022 Electoral Guidelines for Primary Elections, the plaintiff contends that his disqualification lacked any legal basis.
Edogun also criticised the PDP’s Appeal Committee for failing to address his grievances after his initial disqualification, claiming he was denied the constitutional right to a fair hearing under Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
He is seeking several legal remedies, including a declaration that his disqualification from the primary election is unlawful and without legal effect. He also wants the court to declare the primary election conducted on July 21, 2025, as invalid due to his exclusion.
Additionally, he is asking for an order setting aside the outcome of that primary and a perpetual injunction to prevent INEC from recognizing Prince Joseph Okoje as the PDP candidate for the forthcoming bye-election.
The court has directed all three defendants, Prince Joseph Okoje, the PDP, and INEC to respond by entering an appearance within seven days of receiving the summons.
If they fail to do so, the court may proceed with the case and grant the requested relief without further notice to the defendants.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the PDP in the upcoming by-election, as legal battles over candidate eligibility continue to unfold in Edo State.
