Political parties have been handed a major relief ahead of the 2027 general elections after a Federal High Court in Abuja nullified parts of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) election timetable.
The court ruled that INEC went beyond its powers when it imposed deadlines for party primaries, candidate substitutions, submission of membership registers, and publication of final candidate lists.
In the judgment, the court held that the Electoral Act already clearly defines timelines for political activities, and INEC cannot shorten or alter those statutory periods through its own schedule.
It specifically faulted INEC’s attempt to set earlier cut-off dates for parties to submit candidates’ details, withdraw or replace nominees, and conclude campaign activities, describing such actions as inconsistent with the law.
The ruling followed a suit filed by the Youth Party, which argued that political parties should be allowed to operate strictly within the timelines provided by law rather than administrative restrictions introduced by the electoral body.
The court agreed, stating that INEC lacks the legal authority to override or restrict the minimum timelines already established under the Electoral Act.
With this decision, political parties are expected to enjoy more flexibility in their preparations for the 2027 elections, even as INEC is now required to adjust its timetable to align with the law.
The judgment is already generating reactions in political circles, as stakeholders weigh its implications for election planning, party primaries, and overall electoral administration ahead of 2027.