The Federal High Court in Abuja is set to deliver a judgment today in the case brought by the All Democratic Alliance (ADA). The party is seeking consequential orders to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register it as a political party.
ADA Accuses INEC of Double Standards
The national secretary of ADA, Dr Umar Ardo, expressed frustration over the non-registration of the party. He accused INEC of applying double standards, noting that while ADA met all the requirements, the electoral body recognized other associations while abandoning ADA.
Governor Makinde to Declare Presidential Ambition
Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is expected to formally declare his presidential ambition tomorrow. This will take place during a major political rally at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan. The event, tagged 'Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026', will also serve as the official launch of Makinde's anticipated 2027 presidential bid.
The rally will also unveil a grand political alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples' Movement (APM). Candidates aligned with the emerging coalition championed by the Oyo governor and his loyalists will also be presented.
Preparations Intensify
Sources familiar with the development disclosed yesterday that preparations for the rally have intensified amid growing political realignments within Oyo and the wider South-West region. Grassroots mobilisers, political associates, and loyalists of Governor Makinde are reportedly making strategic moves as consultations over a broader political structure continue to gather momentum.
Political observers maintain that these moves are part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening grassroots structures across Oyo and beyond while consolidating Makinde's growing influence within the national political space.
Expected Attendees
The May 14 rally is expected to attract political stakeholders, youth groups, community leaders, traditional supporters, and allies from across the country. It is particularly expected to draw individuals who align with Makinde's leadership style and political vision.
Although Makinde has yet to make an official public statement regarding his intention to contest the presidency in 2027, support groups and political associates have continued to intensify calls for him to join the race.
