A Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified parts of the 2027 general election timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ruling that several deadlines conflict with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
Justice Mohammad Umar, in a judgment delivered on Wednesday, held that some timelines contained in INEC’s Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities unlawfully shortened statutory periods granted to political parties under the law.
The case was filed by the Youth Party against INEC, challenging the legality of the revised timetable for the 2027 elections.
According to the court, INEC lacked the authority to impose deadlines that contradict sections of the Electoral Act governing party primaries, candidate substitution, campaign periods and publication of candidates’ lists.
Justice Umar ruled that the electoral commission could not lawfully reduce the 120-day period allowed for political parties to submit candidates’ particulars before an election. The court also declared invalid INEC’s earlier deadlines for withdrawal and replacement of candidates, which the law permits up to 90 days before an election.
The judge further held that INEC could not publish the final list of candidates earlier than the 60-day minimum period prescribed by law. He also ruled that the commission lacked the statutory authority to order political campaigns to end two days before elections.
The court additionally clarified that timelines for submitting membership registers for party primaries do not apply when parties are replacing candidates who voluntarily withdraw from elections.
Justice Umar consequently nullified all sections of the revised timetable found inconsistent with the Electoral Act 2026.
The originating report was published by The Nation Newspaper.
Gbenga Hashim Praises Judgment
Former presidential candidate Gbenga Hashim welcomed the ruling, describing it as a victory for constitutional order and the rule of law.
Hashim said the judgment reaffirmed the supremacy of the Electoral Act and accused INEC of overreaching its powers through the disputed timetable.
He praised Justice Umar for what he called a courageous decision that would strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.
PRP Backs Verdict
The Peoples Redemption Party also supported the judgment, saying it restores critical powers to political parties and expands democratic participation.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammed Bello Ishaq, the party said it was studying the full implications of the ruling but believed it would reduce excessive restrictions on party activities.
The PRP added that the ruling could benefit several political parties ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly amid internal disputes over candidate selection.
INEC Set to Appeal
A senior INEC official said the commission was reviewing the judgment and would appeal the decision.
The official disclosed that INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, and national commissioners were in Ekiti State for preparations ahead of the June 20 governorship election when news of the ruling emerged.
