ADC predicts APC defections after court ruling on INEC timetable

The African Democratic Congress has predicted a possible wave of defections from the ruling All Progressives Congress following a Federal High Court judgment that nullified aspects of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s timetable for the 2027 general elections.

The opposition party said the ruling could reshape political alignments ahead of the next election cycle by giving aggrieved politicians more time to challenge party decisions or switch political platforms.

The judgment, delivered by Justice Mohammad Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja, followed a suit filed by the Youth Party against Independent National Electoral Commission.

The court held that INEC exceeded its powers by imposing timelines that allegedly shortened periods already guaranteed under the Electoral Act 2026 for political parties to conduct primaries and submit candidate-related documents.

Justice Umar ruled that while INEC has authority to supervise electoral processes, it cannot override statutory provisions contained in the Electoral Act.

The ruling affects deadlines relating to party primaries, submission of candidates’ particulars, withdrawal or substitution of candidates, and submission of membership registers.

Reacting to the development, the ADC said the decision could weaken attempts by major parties to tightly control their internal primary processes.

According to the party, the restoration of broader timelines may create room for prolonged negotiations, internal disputes, and political realignments within parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

An ADC spokesperson claimed the judgment could encourage dissatisfied politicians within the APC to explore alternative political platforms if they feel marginalized during candidate selection processes.

Political analysts say the ruling may lead to longer and more competitive primary seasons across parties, increasing the likelihood of legal disputes and factional tensions.

The APC has yet to issue a comprehensive official response to the ADC’s claims, while INEC is expected to review the implications of the court decision on preparations for the 2027 general elections.