A Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has scheduled November 24, 2026, for judgment in a suit challenging former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege's participation in the May 29, 2026, Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election. The suit, marked FHC/WR/CS/120/2026, was filed by Prof. Alexander Osondu Akpodiete, who is seeking Omo-Agege's disqualification and an order declaring him the rightful NDC candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District.
The court heard submissions from lawyers representing the parties, including the NDC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). During proceedings, counsel to Omo-Agege told the court that his client resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) on May 5, 2026, and joined the NDC the same day. Counsel also submitted that Omo-Agege did not participate in the APC senatorial primary held on May 18.
However, Akpodiete disputed that account, arguing that Omo-Agege participated in the APC primary, publicly declared himself a participant, and subsequently claimed victory in media interviews and public appearances. The competing submissions raised questions about the timeline of Omo-Agege's reported departure from the APC and his alleged participation in the party's primary.
The central issue before the court is whether Omo-Agege met the applicable legal requirements to be a member of the NDC and participate in its primary election, including the relevant provisions of the Electoral Act. The court's decision will determine the legitimacy of Omo-Agege's candidacy in the NDC primary election.
Akpodiete is asking the court to determine the disputed issues and grant the reliefs sought in his suit. The court is expected to deliver its judgment on November 24, 2026. Until then, the court still needs to determine the legal questions raised in the case.
The outcome of this case may have implications for Omo-Agege's political career and the NDC's chances in the Delta Central Senatorial District election. The court's judgment will provide clarity on the eligibility of candidates who switch parties and participate in primary elections.
Justice Hyeladzira Ajiya Nganjiwa reserved judgment after hearing submissions from lawyers representing the parties. The case has garnered attention from various stakeholders, including politicians and legal experts, who are eagerly awaiting the court's decision.
Key points
- The Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has fixed November 24, 2026, for judgment in a suit challenging Ovie Omo-Agege's participation in the Nigeria Democratic Congress primary election.
- The suit was filed by Prof. Alexander Osondu Akpodiete, who is seeking Omo-Agege's disqualification and an order declaring him the rightful NDC candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District.
- The court's decision will determine the legitimacy of Omo-Agege's candidacy in the NDC primary election.
