Supreme Court Delay May Throw ADC, Other Parties Into Electoral Crisis — Magaji Mato Warns

Senior lawyer, Magaji Mato (SAN), has warned that the African Democratic Congress and other political parties could face challenges meeting deadlines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if the Supreme Court delays judgment in a pending appeal.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking on Wednesday during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show, Mato said the matter carries serious implications for Nigeria’s democracy and electoral process.

Although he acknowledged that the Constitution gives the Supreme Court up to three months to deliver judgment, he argued that the circumstances require an expedited ruling.

According to him, a prolonged delay could make the judgment ineffective, fuel political uncertainty, and potentially disrupt the electoral process.

Mato said the ADC was justified in calling for a quick decision, especially given the time-sensitive nature of electoral deadlines and INEC’s timetable.

He added that the Supreme Court justices are likely aware of the national significance of the case and the global attention surrounding developments that could affect Nigeria’s democratic process.

The senior lawyer warned that any delay capable of denying political parties or candidates a fair chance to contest elections would be damaging and could be viewed negatively by history.

He stressed that while the court has constitutional room to take its time, a judgment delivered too late could lose practical value and even trigger political tension.

Mato expressed hope that the ruling would come promptly, warning that if it stretches beyond the immediate period, some parties, including the ADC, may begin to face serious difficulties with INEC deadlines and election preparations.