The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has raised fresh concerns about a possible legal confrontation with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that unresolved issues surrounding party leadership recognition could impact preparations for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released in Lagos, the party’s National Secretary, Olaposi Ogini, accused the electoral commission of failing to comply with court judgments, particularly those relating to internal party leadership disputes.
He cautioned that such actions could lead to a wave of litigation that may ultimately affect the election timetable.
Olaposi said, “INEC’s disobedience to court orders is avoidable.
It is disturbing that INEC—an institution led by a professor of law and a senior advocate of Nigeria—should refuse to obey court orders.
“In a recent instance, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory delivered a judgement compelling INEC, within 72 hours, to update its records and recognise that Dr Agbo Major led the National Working Committee (NWC) of the NNPP and filed an affidavit of compliance.
“Three weeks thereafter, the commission has yet to comply, without any credible explanation.
“What is evident is that time has been running against INEC from the day Honourable Justice Bello Kawu delivered the judgement. The commission was duly served by the court bailiff, and proof of service is properly entered in the court record.
“It, therefore, stands to reason that INEC must accord the NNPP adequate and equal time, like other political parties, to prepare for and participate in the 2027 elections.”
He further warned that the party would pursue legal remedies if the commission fails to act within seven days, including initiating contempt proceedings and taking the matter to the Supreme Court.
“We call the attention of the Federal Government and other critical stakeholders to urgently call INEC to order so as to prevent any further distortion of the 2027 election timetable.
“We specifically call on the Attorney-General and Chief Justice Lateef Fagbemi and the Chief Justice of the president of the Nigerian Bar Association to investigate what is going on in INEC.
“The judiciary and the court must be seen to protect and guide their jurisdiction jealously to preserve the integrity and authority of the courts and to ensure that lawful orders are neither ignored nor undermined.
“INEC’s present conduct may constitute a threat to democracy, and we join other well-meaning Nigerians in calling it to retrace its steps.
“We also have NEC leadership and a comprehensive overhaul of the commission, particularly its legal department, to restore credibility and safeguard the nation’s democracy,” he added.
Olaposi also argued that the commission’s current actions run contrary to the principles of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, warning that continued disregard for court orders could undermine confidence in the electoral process.
