By Sandra Chukwunyere
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has raised serious concerns over what it described as the persistent refusal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, to comply with valid court judgments relating to the leadership of the party.
In a statement signed by Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday, Secretary-General of the NNPP, the party said the leadership dispute within its ranks had been conclusively settled by courts of competent jurisdiction, including the Abia State High Court, the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Apo Division, and the Court of Appeal, Owerri Division, all of which affirmed the Agbo Major-led leadership.
According to the statement, it is troubling that despite the clear judicial pronouncements, INEC has allegedly continued to withhold recognition of the court-backed leadership, a situation the party said raises concerns about the Commission’s commitment to the rule of law and institutional neutrality.
The NNPP further alleged that during a meeting held on May 15, 2026, convened to address issues arising from the judgments, Prof. Amupitan reportedly maintained that he was under no obligation to implement court decisions obtained against individuals who are now members of other political parties.
The party described the alleged position as inconsistent with the constitutional responsibilities of the nation’s electoral umpire and warned that such actions could erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
According to the statement, the Commission’s refusal to comply with court orders, including an order of mandamus directing it to recognize the Agbo Major-led leadership, amounts to a direct challenge to judicial authority and could create unnecessary political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The NNPP stated that its decision to commence contempt proceedings against the INEC Chairman was aimed at protecting the sanctity of the judiciary and ensuring that no public official operates above the law.
The party also warned that continued disregard for judicial decisions could disrupt electoral preparations and undermine the significant public resources already committed to the 2027 electoral process.
While reaffirming its commitment to lawful and democratic processes, the NNPP pledged to continue pursuing all available legal remedies until full compliance with the court judgments is achieved.
The statement further called on the Attorney-General of the Federation to intervene in the matter and urged the leadership of the judiciary to take necessary steps to protect the authority and integrity of the courts.
“The rule of law remains the bedrock of democracy. No individual or institution is above the law, and court judgments must be obeyed without exception,” the statement concluded.
