The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has appealed a Federal High Court judgment in Abuja that nullified the timelines it set for political parties to conduct primaries and submit candidates for the 2027 general election.
The commission filed a notice of appeal and a motion for stay of execution on Monday, May 25, seeking to suspend the enforcement of the ruling pending the outcome of the appeal.
The judgment, delivered last Wednesday by Justice Mohammed Umar, held that INEC has no legal authority to prescribe timelines for political parties’ primary elections or the nomination of candidates.
The court ruled that provisions of the Electoral Act relied upon by INEC did not empower the commission to determine schedules for party primaries.
The case was filed by the Youth Party, which challenged INEC’s timetable issued for preparations ahead of the 2027 elections.
Under the annulled schedule, political parties were required to submit membership registers by May 10, conduct primaries, and submit candidates within specified deadlines.
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In its appeal, INEC argued that the trial court failed to address key jurisdictional issues, including whether the suit was hypothetical and academic.
The commission also maintained that the court misinterpreted provisions of the Electoral Act and failed to consider relevant sections supporting its position.
INEC said it is asking the appellate court to set aside the judgment in its entirety.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in Mass Communication. He can be reached via @VICTOREZEJA on X