Amanze Chinonye
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has set aside a Federal High Court judgment that nullified key provisions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines and timetable for the 2027 general elections, effectively restoring the commission’s framework for the conduct of the polls, Prime Business Africa reports.
In a unanimous judgment delivered on Thursday, the appellate court held that the Youth Party, the plaintiff in the original suit, lacked the requisite locus standi (legal standing) to challenge the electoral guidelines.
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The lead judgment, delivered by Justice Adebukola Banjoko and read by Justice Okon Abang, held that the party failed to demonstrate that it had suffered any specific injury or that the guidelines had directly affected its operations, particularly with respect to the conduct of its primaries and the submission of candidates’ names.
The appellate court further ruled that the Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Mohammed Garba Umar, erred in its May 20, 2026 judgment, which invalidated aspects of INEC’s timetable.
The lower court had held that the deadlines for party primaries, as well as the early submission of membership registers and candidates’ particulars, were inconsistent with provisions of the Electoral Act.
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INEC had challenged the ruling, arguing through its counsel that the decision amounted to a miscarriage of justice. The commission also maintained that it was denied a fair hearing after the trial court failed to properly determine its preliminary objections before proceeding to the substantive issues.
By setting aside the Federal High Court’s judgment, the Court of Appeal has reinstated INEC’s electoral guidelines and timetable for the 2027 general elections, allowing the electoral body to continue its preparations under the existing framework.
The ruling is expected to provide legal certainty for political parties and other stakeholders as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
