The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, has questioned his exclusion from the final list of candidates released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2027 governorship election.

Adebutu, in a statement on Sunday, said the circumstances surrounding the omission of his name and that of his running mate, Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo, raised serious questions.

He noted that other PDP candidates contesting for seats in the House of Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate were included in INEC’s published lists.

“We will pursue this matter through the appropriate channels and insist that due process is respected,” Adebutu said.

Daily Trust had reported that Adebutu and Sowunmi-Kolapo were absent from the final list released by INEC on Saturday.

A check of the commission’s portal showed that 13 governorship candidates and their running mates were listed, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, and his running mate, Kudirat Abiodun Balogun.

Reacting to his exclusion, Adebutu maintained that he remained a registered member of the PDP, having completed his digital registration within the stipulated period. He added that his membership card had been printed and verified.

“My documentation was duly submitted to INEC within the prescribed time. I have not at any point left the PDP, and my commitment to our great party remains unwavering,” he said.

The PDP candidate also stated that the governorship primary that produced him as the party’s flagbearer was conducted in the presence of INEC officials, who attended as observers.

According to him, the relevant documents were presented for verification, certification and confirmation.

Adebutu further alleged that the party had faced attempts to frustrate its campaign, including restrictions on billboards, attacks at campaign grounds and harassment of members.

He urged party members, supporters and residents of Ogun State to remain calm, assuring them that steps were being taken to address the situation.

Adebutu reaffirmed his commitment to the state, insisting that the party’s campaign was focused on the welfare and development of Ogun residents.

“Our cause is bigger than any individual. It is about the dignity of our people, the progress of our state and the right of Ogun people to determine our own future,” he said.