Court begins hearing in suit challenging Oyo local elections

A Federal High Court in Abuja has opened proceedings in a case that could disrupt plans for Oyo State’s 2026/2027 local government elections.

Akinloye Oyeniyi, a businessman and politician from Ogbomoso, is challenging the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission’s revised timetable, particularly provisions covering the verification and screening of candidates. He argues that the commission’s constitutional role extends only to checking documents submitted for nominated candidates.

Oyeniyi is also contesting Items 6 and 9 of the timetable issued on March 4, 2026. He says the provisions conflict with the Constitution and the Electoral Act 2026 and could infringe on his right to contest and vote for candidates of his choice.

Among the reliefs he seeks is an order stopping the Independent National Electoral Commission from releasing Oyo’s certified voter register to OYSIEC until the two timetable items are removed or cancelled. Justice Obiora Egwuatu ordered the plaintiff to serve the originating summons on OYSIEC and INEC, then adjourned the case until Sept. 10, 2026, for a report on service.