Political parties on Thursday welcomed the Federal High Court judgment nullifying parts of INEC’s timetable for the 2027 general elections, describing the ruling as a major relief that could reshape preparations ahead of the polls.
Political parties on Thursday welcomed the Federal High Court judgment nullifying parts of the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for the 2027 general elections, describing the ruling as a significant victory for internal party administration and democratic processes. The judgment followed months of complaints by political parties that the electoral body’s timelines were too restrictive and limited their ability to properly organise conventions, primaries and other political activities ahead of the polls.
Reacting to the development, spokesman of the interim National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party led by Kabiru Turaki, SAN, Ini Ememobong, said the judgment would allow political parties to better coordinate their affairs. “There is a need to hurry slowly on critical democratic processes. I’m certain that all political parties are gladdened by the judgment. The judgment will help parties to better organise themselves,” he told Vanguard. Speaking separately, National Publicity Secretary of the PDP National Working Committee aligned with Nyesom Wike, Mohammed Haruna Jungudo, said the camp was still studying the court’s decision before taking a formal position. “I will revert back to you. We are studying the judgment now,” he stated.
Also reacting, National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Redemption Party, Muhammed Bello Ishaq, said the ruling appeared to restore powers political parties believed INEC had gradually taken over. “On the face of it, it promotes the growth and development of our democratic culture by restoring critical responsibilities to political parties, which INEC had usurped,” he said. He added that the judgment “expands the scope for decision-making within parties and removes the unhealthy regimentation of our activities.” Ishaq, however, warned that the decision could spark another legal battle if INEC chooses to challenge the ruling. “INEC may choose to appeal, although we hope that patriots and influential stakeholders will intervene to restrain such actions,” he added.
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