The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) will take part in today’s by-elections across selected constituencies, following a court ruling that cleared the party to participate.
The confirmation comes after days of uncertainty, as earlier disputes had cast doubt on the SDP’s eligibility. In a statement issued on Friday, INEC explained that it had received and complied with a directive of the Federal High Court, which ordered the inclusion of the party and its candidates on the ballot.
According to INEC, this decision underscores the Commission’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting judicial processes in the conduct of elections. “As a law-abiding institution, INEC has complied fully with the court ruling and has taken all necessary steps to ensure that the SDP is duly included in today’s by-elections,” the statement read.
The by-elections are being held to fill vacant seats in both legislative and state assemblies following resignations, deaths, or legal disputes affecting previously elected representatives. Political analysts note that the participation of the SDP could reshape the dynamics in some constituencies, where contests are expected to be closely fought.
Party leaders have welcomed the court’s ruling, describing it as a victory for democracy and for the rights of voters to be presented with broader choices at the polls. SDP candidates across different states have urged their supporters to come out in large numbers, emphasizing their readiness to compete fairly.
Observers from civil society organizations and international partners are also monitoring the by-elections to assess transparency and credibility. The inclusion of the SDP is seen as a boost to electoral fairness, as it broadens the spectrum of representation in Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
With the court ruling now settled, attention turns to voter turnout and the outcome of the contests, which will provide early insights into shifting political trends ahead of the next general elections.