The Independent National Electoral Commission's decision to appeal a Federal High Court judgment that nullified parts of its 2027 election timetable has left opposition parties and aggrieved politicians in a state of uncertainty. The African Democratic Congress and the Social Democratic Party have dismissed the appeal, arguing that it was expected and does not serve the interests of Nigerians.
Reactions from Opposition Parties
Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, stated that the party anticipated INEC's move. He said, "We expected it, and that was the reason we did not shift our primaries. We regarded the judgment as a booby trap in the first instance. However, our disposition to that judgment does not prejudice the fact that INEC is not doing the right thing. We will do everything possible to ensure that Nigerians have a strong alternative government of their choice next year, one that will reshape the country."
Similarly, Olu Agunloye, National Secretary of the SDP, noted that INEC has the constitutional right to appeal but warned that "it will meet the whole of Nigeria in court." He added that the commission appears to be working not for Nigerians but in the interest of one individual.
Defense of INEC's Appeal
Rotimi Oyekanmi, former spokesman of a past INEC Chairman, defended the commission's decision. He argued that the ruling questioned INEC's constitutional powers and that the commission acted within its rights to seek judicial interpretation at a higher court. Oyekanmi emphasized that the 1999 Constitution clearly outlines INEC's responsibilities, including organizing elections and monitoring political parties. He stated, "A lot of planning and consultations go into the finalization and production of the timetable. Any attempt to compel the commission to alter timelines should not be taken lightly because of the constitutional and electoral implications."
Details of the Appeal
INEC asked the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal to set aside the judgment delivered by Justice Muhammed Umar of the Federal High Court on May 20, 2026. The high court had nullified guidelines requiring political parties to submit membership registers by May 10 as a condition for participating in the 2027 general election. The suit was instituted by the Youth Party. INEC, through its counsel Chief Alex Izinyon (SAN), raised nine grounds of appeal, arguing that the trial court erred in its interpretation of the Electoral Act 2026 and that the judgment was against the weight of evidence.
Fallout from APC Primaries
The controversy over INEC's timetable has coincided with a wave of defections from the ruling All Progressives Congress following disputed primaries. Former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar Adamu resigned from the APC after losing the governorship ticket in Nasarawa State. Senator Shehu Buba Umar also defected to the People's Redemption Party, citing lack of internal democracy and fairness. Additionally, Mustapha Bala, Chief of Staff to the APC National Chairman, joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress after losing a primary in Kano State.
These defections have fueled speculation that more aggrieved aspirants may follow suit, especially after the court ruling reopened opportunities for candidates to switch parties and still contest elections. In Oyo State, former Minister Bayo Adelabu rejected the results of the APC governorship primary, claiming that the votes announced far exceeded the party's registered membership. Similar grievances have emerged in Lagos, Kano, Rivers, and Kaduna states.
Political Implications
Political analysts warn that unless party leaders reconcile aggrieved camps, the country may witness significant pre-election realignments. Smaller parties and coalitions are reportedly positioning themselves to receive disgruntled politicians. Meanwhile, the Progressive Governors Forum congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his victory in the APC presidential primary, describing it as a validation of his leadership.
The APC has downplayed fears of mass defections, with a party chieftain in Osun State stating that members are free to seek redress or move to other parties. However, an aggrieved aspirant cautioned that the worst scenario would be those who remain within the party only to sow discord.
