Joyce Mmereole OkoliThe New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has issued a strong warning that the persistent disobedience of valid court orders by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could force a major adjustment to the 2027 general election timetable.
In a sharply worded statement signed by Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday, Secretary-General of the NNPP, the party condemned what it described as “the avoidable and disturbing conduct” of INEC under its current leadership.
“It is both unbelievable and embarrassing that INEC, an institution led by a Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria—has descended to the level of openly undermining the rule of law,” the NNPP said.
The controversy stems from a ruling of the FCT High Court, which ordered INEC to, within 72 hours, update its records and recognise the Dr. Agbo Major Gilbert–led National Working Committee (NWC), as well as file an affidavit confirming its compliance.
The NNPP, however, says that three weeks after the judgment, INEC, under the supervision of Professor Amupitan has failed to obey the court order.
“Time has been running against INEC from the very day Justice Bello Kawu delivered the judgment. INEC was duly served, and proof of service is clearly recorded. Yet no credible explanation has been offered for its refusal to comply,” the party stated.
The NNPP noted that the Commission’s conduct threatens the party’s ability to prepare adequately for the 2027 elections, warning that equal participation cannot be guaranteed unless INEC follows the law.
“We have commenced contempt proceedings and shall pursue justice and equity to the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” the statement added.
The party called on the Federal Government and key national institutions to urgently intervene and prevent a further derailment of the election calendar.
Specifically, the NNPP urged:
• The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi
• The Chief Justice of Nigeria
• The President of the Nigerian Bar Association
to immediately investigate the situation within INEC.
“The judiciary must protect its jurisdiction jealously to preserve the authority of the courts. No lawful order should ever be ignored or undermined,” the NNPP warned.
The statement emphasised that INEC’s conduct has become:
• “an embarrassment to the rule of law,”
• “a threat to democracy,” and
• “a violation of the spirit and letters of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President.”
The NNPP also demanded a comprehensive overhaul of INEC, particularly its legal department, as part of wider efforts to restore public confidence in the Commission.
“We join well-meaning Nigerians in calling for an urgent overhaul of INEC. The present conduct of its leadership is damaging to democracy and unacceptable in a constitutional democracy,”* the party concluded.