Breaking: NNPP Slams INEC, Says Amupitan-led Commission Is Disobeying Court Rulings

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of ignoring court rulings concerning the recognition of the party’s leadership structure.

In a statement issued in Lagos by its National Secretary, Ogini Olaposi, the party alleged that INEC has failed to comply with a Federal Capital Territory High Court order directing it to update its records and recognise the Agbo Major-led National Working Committee (NWC), as well as submit an affidavit confirming compliance.

According to the party, the court had given INEC 72 hours to obey the ruling, but three weeks later, the commission is yet to comply or provide any explanation for its delay.

Olaposi expressed concern over the situation, particularly under the leadership of INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, who is both a legal scholar and Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

He warned that INEC risks disruption of preparations for the 2027 general elections if issues surrounding party leadership recognition are not resolved in line with judicial pronouncements.

He said INEC’s refusal to obey court orders was avoidable and troubling, stressing that an institution headed by a legal expert should not be seen disregarding valid court judgments.

He further referenced the FCT High Court ruling delivered by Justice Bello Kawu, which ordered INEC to comply within 72 hours. He noted that proof of service was duly recorded, yet the commission had still not acted.

Olaposi insisted that INEC must provide the NNPP with fair and adequate time, just like other political parties, to prepare for the 2027 elections.

The party warned that it may initiate contempt proceedings against INEC and escalate the matter up to the Supreme Court if compliance is not achieved within seven days.

It also called on key stakeholders, including the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), to intervene and investigate the situation, warning that continued disregard for court orders could undermine public confidence in the judiciary.

The NNPP concluded that INEC’s conduct poses a risk to democratic processes and urged urgent reforms within the commission, especially in its legal department, to restore credibility and ensure respect for the rule of law.