By Sandra Chukwunyere
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has raised serious concerns over the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that its alleged refusal to comply with a valid court order could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its Secretary-General, Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday, the party criticised INEC for what it described as a persistent disregard for the rule of law.
The NNPP said it was both “unbelievable and disturbing” that an institution led by highly respected legal figures could be accused of failing to obey a clear court directive.
According to the party, a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory had ordered INEC to, within 72 hours, update its records, recognise the Dr. Agbo Major Gilbert-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the NNPP, and file an affidavit confirming compliance.
However, more than three weeks after the judgment was delivered by Honourable Justice Bello Kawu, the Commission has yet to act, with no official explanation provided.
The party noted that INEC was duly served through a court bailiff and that proof of service is already part of the court record, making the delay difficult to justify.
It warned that the situation could put the NNPP at a disadvantage if not urgently addressed, stressing that all political parties must be given equal opportunity and sufficient time to prepare for the 2027 elections.
As a result, the NNPP disclosed that it has commenced contempt proceedings against the Commission and is prepared to pursue the matter up to the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The party also called on the Federal Government and key stakeholders to intervene, urging the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Chief Justice of Nigeria, and the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association to investigate the situation and ensure compliance with the court’s ruling.
Emphasising the importance of judicial authority, the NNPP stated that the courts must be protected from disregard, warning that failure to enforce lawful orders could weaken public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
It described INEC’s current actions as a threat to democracy and called for a comprehensive overhaul of the Commission, particularly its legal department, to restore credibility and public trust.
The party further argued that such conduct runs contrary to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which promotes adherence to the rule of law and institutional accountability.
The NNPP added that continued non-compliance with judicial pronouncements could set a dangerous precedent where public institutions pick and choose which court orders to obey, a development it said would erode constitutional governance.
It therefore urged INEC to act swiftly in line with the court’s directive in order to avoid further legal complications and to reassure Nigerians of its commitment to transparency, fairness, and the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the 2027 polls.
