The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has defended its decision to challenge a Federal High Court judgment that nullified aspects of its timetable for political party primaries and candidate nominations ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that the appeal is necessary to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, made the clarification on Tuesday during a consultative meeting with leaders of political parties in Abuja, where preparations for the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State governorship election were also reviewed.
The electoral body said its appeal was not intended to create uncertainty for political parties but to obtain judicial clarity on its constitutional and statutory powers to regulate key aspects of the election timetable.
The controversy stems from a Federal High Court judgment delivered in May, which set aside portions of INEC’s revised timetable for the 2027 general elections. The court held that the commission lacked the authority to prescribe timelines for political party primaries and certain pre-election activities beyond what is stipulated in the Electoral Act 2026.
Following the judgment, INEC filed an appeal and sought a stay of execution, arguing that the ruling could undermine the orderly conduct of elections if allowed to stand. The commission maintains that fixing timelines is part of its constitutional responsibility to ensure a predictable and coordinated electoral process.
Addressing party leaders, Amupitan stressed that until the Court of Appeal determines the matter, political parties should continue to comply with existing electoral guidelines and timelines issued by the commission.
He explained that the appeal became necessary because conflicting judicial interpretations on the commission’s powers could create confusion for political actors and jeopardise preparations for the 2027 elections.
The INEC chairman also reiterated the commission’s commitment to conducting transparent, credible and peaceful elections, urging political parties to work closely with the electoral body and adhere to established regulations.
The meeting formed part of a series of engagements between INEC and stakeholders ahead of the Ekiti governorship election, scheduled to hold in less than two weeks. The consultations are aimed at addressing outstanding concerns and ensuring that all preparations are completed before polling day.
The appeal has continued to generate debate within political circles, particularly among parties and aspirants affected by the earlier court decision. However, INEC insists that seeking appellate review is the most appropriate legal pathway for resolving the dispute and establishing a clear framework for future electoral activities.
