Date: June 10, 2026 l Reporter: Kimberly White
ABUJA, Nigeria — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has moved to challenge recent court decisions affecting aspects of its timetable for the 2027 general elections, arguing that the rulings could create uncertainty and disrupt preparations for the nationwide electoral process.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), disclosed the development during the commission’s Second Quarterly Consultative Meeting with leaders of political parties in Abuja, explaining that the commission had filed appeals against judgments issued by the Federal High Court concerning its authority to coordinate election-related timelines.
According to Amupitan, the legal challenge became necessary following two separate court rulings delivered in May 2026 which questioned elements of INEC’s election schedule for the 2027 polls. One ruling reportedly challenged certain timelines established by the commission, while another affirmed INEC’s authority to issue an election timetable but invalidated some provisions relating to candidate nomination and substitution procedures.
The INEC chairman stated that while the commission respects judicial decisions and remains committed to compliance with the law, the judgments raise broader constitutional and operational questions regarding the extent of INEC’s powers in administering elections.
Amupitan emphasized that election administration involves interconnected activities that cannot be treated independently without affecting the overall process. He noted that beyond timelines expressly stated in electoral laws, several administrative and logistical stages must be carefully aligned to ensure credible elections.
Among the processes cited were verification of party membership registers, supervision of party primaries, management of candidate submissions, configuration of election technology systems, printing of sensitive materials, personnel training, and broader coordination efforts necessary for nationwide elections.
He warned that altering isolated portions of the timetable without considering the broader operational framework could create administrative complications and uncertainty among political parties and election stakeholders. INEC therefore argued that maintaining a harmonized schedule remains essential for transparency, fairness, and efficient electoral management.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Amupitan assured political parties and Nigerians that preparations for the 2027 elections would continue uninterrupted and in accordance with constitutional provisions, the Electoral Act, and lawful judicial directives.
The commission also announced plans to issue official access credentials to political parties for its candidate nomination portal later in June, urging party officials and technical teams to prepare ahead of submission deadlines.
INEC further encouraged political parties to intensify voter education and mobilization efforts as voter registration activities continue nationwide, stressing that credible elections require participation, compliance with regulations, and commitment to democratic principles.