INEC Battles Court Over 2027 Guidelines

INEC Battles Court Over 2027 Guidelines

The Independent National Electoral Commission has approached the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal over a judgement that nullified part of its 2027 election guidelines.

The electoral body is seeking to overturn the earlier ruling delivered by the Federal High Court. The dispute centres on deadlines given to political parties for submission of membership records.

The lower court had ruled against INEC’s directive requiring parties to submit membership registers and databases by 10 May 2026. The case was filed by the Youth Party, which challenged the legality of the guideline.

Justice Muhammed Umar held that the commission could not shorten timelines already stated in the Electoral Act 2026.

INEC’s appeal, dated 25 May 2026, was filed by senior lawyer Chief Alex Izinyon SAN. The commission asked the appellate court to set aside the judgement and restore the disputed guideline.

It also requested a stay of execution pending the final outcome of the appeal process.

The case is expected to shape preparations for the 2027 general election as parties continue internal activities. Political observers say the outcome could affect nomination procedures and election planning nationwide.

Attention is now focused on the Court of Appeal for the next stage of the legal battle.