The Enugu North senatorial political landscape has been thrown into fresh tension as the candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) for the forthcoming by-election, Oscar Okwudili Ossai, has instituted legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging unlawful exclusion of his name from the official list of candidates.
Ossai, who emerged from the party’s primary held on 26th May 2026, maintained that his nomination followed due process, was duly monitored by party and state officials, and was formally communicated to INEC in line with electoral requirements. He further insisted that the commission acknowledged receipt of the nomination documents, which he said have already been tendered as evidence in court.
According to him, the exclusion of his name from the final candidate list for the 20th June 2026 by-election amounts to a breach of the law and an attempt to undermine the democratic process. Consequently, he and the NDC have approached the Federal High Court, Abuja, under Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1187/2026, seeking an order compelling INEC to immediately restore his candidacy or nullify any election conducted without his participation.
In a strongly worded official statement addressed to constituents of Enugu North Senatorial District, Ossai reaffirmed his legitimacy as the party’s flagbearer and called for calm while the matter is adjudicated. He also emphasized his resolve to pursue the mandate he believes was freely given to him at the primary.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT: OSCAR OKWUDILI OSSAI SPEAKS TO ENUGU NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT
Umunnem Ndi Enugu North Zone, I salute you all
On 26th May 2026, the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) conducted a peaceful, transparent primary. Led by Hon. Alum Enyinnaya Udensi and Hon. Eunice Atujide, as sent by the national and monitored by the state executive council led by Engr. Obeta Ibuchukwu, the process was clear: I emerged as your unanimous candidate for the 20th June By-Election. NDC notified INEC before and after the primary as the law demands, and we have the signed acknowledgement to prove it and have tendered same as exhibit.
Yet, in a move that defies reason and the rule of law, INEC unlawfully excluded my name from the candidate list.
We will not watch in silence. The NDC and I have taken this matter before the Federal High Court, Abuja – Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1187/2026. Our prayer is simple: order INEC to restore my name immediately, or any election held without me will be null and void. I was validly nominated. That nomination stands.
This moment reveals who I am. A cleric turned public servant, not because I love titles, but because I believe your voice deserves a fearless defender. If I can stand this firm for my mandate, I will stand even firmer for your roads, your jobs, your security, and your children’s future in the red chambers.
To every supporter and constituent:
Breathe. Stay calm. Stay alert. Do not let this distraction steal your focus. The law is clear, the facts are with us, and justice is not in a hurry, but it is sure.
I give you my word: I will be on the ballot on 20th June 2026. The love you have shown since that primary keeps growing, and that love is the force no exclusion can stop. Victory on the 20th is sacrosanct. Come January, we will seal it.
NDC stands. Enugu North stands. And I, Oscar Okwudili Ossai, stand with you.
Oscar Okwudili Ossai
NDC Senatorial Candidate, Enugu North Senatorial District
