The Peoples Democratic Party has hailed the judgement by the Federal High Court, ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission to, within 24 hours, restore Ladi Adebutu as their candidate for the 2027 Ogun State governorship elections.

The party’s state spokesperson, Kayode Adebayo, described the ruling delivered by Justice Peter Lifu on Thursday as a triumph of due process over administrative aberration, as well as a victory for democracy and justice.

Mr Adebayo said, “The Peoples Democratic Party, Ogun State chapter, welcomes with profound satisfaction the ruling delivered on Friday by Honourable Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court.

“In a landmark judgment, the Honourable Court ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore the name of Hon. Ladi Adebutu to the list of candidates for the 2027 General Elections within 24 hours.”

He said the court reached the decision after examining the evidence before it and confirming that Mr Adebutu’s name was duly included in the authentic PDP register.

The party said the “ruling is a triumph of due process over administrative aberration”, adding that “it reaffirms the supremacy of the rule of law, the sanctity of party records, and the inalienable right of a duly nominated candidate to participate in a democratic contest.”

He said the judgment is not merely a victory for Mr Adebutu but for democracy, for justice, and for the millions of Ogun citizens who have been yearning for competent and credible leadership.

The party urged the electoral body to comply promptly and fully with the court’s order, without delay or equivocation, in the interest of justice and electoral integrity.

“We also call upon our teeming supporters, party faithful, and the good people of Ogun State to remain calm, law-abiding, and steadfast as we march towards victory in 2027. The mandate is clear. The law has spoken. The Gateway shall be built,” the party said.