A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review its election timelines, amid an ongoing appeal by the commission. The court affirmed INEC's constitutional power to issue election timetables and schedules of activities, but clarified that its guidelines cannot override the Electoral Act.
Lawyer and activist Monday Ubani stated, 'INEC guidelines can't override electoral law,' emphasizing that the commission must comply with statutory provisions. The court's ruling came in response to a suit filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and other civil society groups, who argued that INEC's timelines were inconsistent with the Electoral Act.
Despite INEC's appeal against the judgment, stakeholders including former INEC commissioner Olafeso and activist Mikko warned that the appeal cannot excuse INEC from ignoring the verdict on timetable review. The court had previously ordered INEC to review its timelines in 2025, but the commission failed to comply, leading to the current contempt proceedings.
The ruling has significant implications for Nigeria's electoral calendar, as INEC is preparing for the 2027 general elections. Civil society groups have welcomed the judgment, calling on INEC to respect the rule of law and ensure that election timelines are consistent with the Electoral Act to guarantee free and fair elections.
