A legal battle is set to reshape the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) ahead of the 2027 elections, as a High Court in Abuja begins hearing a suit challenging Donald Duke’s presidential nomination.
The case, filed by PRP aspirant Yakubu Kingsley, will be heard on Monday before Justice Mohammed Umar.
Kingsley is asking the court to overturn Duke’s emergence as the party’s candidate following its May 25, 2026 primary.
In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1234/2026, he named the PRP, Duke, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as defendants.
The dispute centres on whether Duke met party membership and screening requirements before contesting.
Dispute Over Membership And Primary Process
Kingsley argued that Duke was not listed as a registered PRP member when the party submitted its membership register to INEC on May 4.
He said this made him ineligible to take part in the primary election.
He also questioned Duke’s participation in the screening process required for aspirants.
He said, “That I physically attended the presidential screening exercise conducted by the party between 15th and 19th May, 2026.”
He added that he met all requirements and was cleared to contest.
Meanwhile, he alleged that Duke did not attend the screening at the party’s national secretariat.
Kingsley further challenged the integrity of the primary results, citing alleged cases of over-voting.
He said figures in some states exceeded the number of registered party members.
In Bauchi, he pointed to 760 votes against 593 members.
In Gombe, he cited 1,431 votes compared to 348 registered members.
In Kwara, he said 82 votes were recorded despite only 55 members.
Court Asked To Declare New Candidate
Kingsley is seeking multiple orders from the court, including a declaration that Duke was not eligible to contest.
He also wants the court to invalidate results from states where he alleged over-voting occurred.
In addition, he is asking to be recognised as the lawful PRP presidential candidate.
He maintained that he fulfilled all conditions, including buying nomination forms and securing endorsements.
He also wants INEC restrained from recognising Duke and directed to accept his own candidacy.
The aspirant said concerns about Duke’s eligibility were raised before the primary but were ignored.
He argued that INEC rules require parties to submit valid membership lists ahead of primaries.
Implications For PRP And 2027 Elections
The case comes at a critical time as political parties prepare early for the 2027 presidential race.
Donald Duke, a former governor of Cross River State from 1999 to 2007, remains a prominent political figure.
His nomination had positioned the PRP as a potential alternative platform in the race.
However, the ongoing legal challenge could affect the party’s preparations and internal stability.
The court’s decision will determine whether the PRP retains Duke as its candidate or faces a leadership and nomination reset.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment 💬, Share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
