Ogun High Court Rules in Favour of 16 Political Parties
As Ogun State prepares for the upcoming elections, In a landmark judgment, the Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta has overturned the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission’s (OGSIEC) imposition of administrative fees for the upcoming 2024 Local Government Elections.
This was disclosed by the IPAC Director General, Hon. Oke Micheal shortly after the judgment held in Abeokuta, the state capital today.
The ruling, delivered by Hon. Justice T.A. Okunsokan, the case, Suit No: AB/577/2024, was filed by 16 political parties against OGSIEC and the Attorney General of Ogun State.
Recall that the parties had argued that the administrative fees were excessive and contravened the principles of accessibility and inclusivity.
The court’s decision effectively removes a financial barrier that could have disqualified capable candidates from running.
This ruling highlights the judiciary’s role as a guardian of democracy, ensuring that all political parties and their candidates can participate in the electoral process regardless of financial constraints.
While some political parties had hoped for a postponement to address their grievances, the Court’s decision signals the importance of maintaining the electoral calendar.
The court’s intervention is a call to OGSIEC and all electoral bodies nationwide to prioritize fair practices that enable full participation in the democratic process.
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