IPAC hails court ruling nullifying INEC deadlines for 2027 Elections

The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has welcomed the Federal High Court ruling nullifying aspects of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable for the 2027 general elections, describing the judgment as a victory for constitutional democracy and the rule of law.

The ruling, delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja, set aside portions of INEC’s guidelines that imposed shortened deadlines for political parties ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. The court held that the electoral body could not abridge timelines already provided for under the Electoral Act.

Reacting to the judgment, IPAC said the decision reaffirmed the supremacy of the constitution and the need for all institutions to operate strictly within the limits of the law.

In a statement issued after the judgment, the council noted that political parties must be allowed sufficient time to conduct internal democratic processes, including party primaries, candidate substitutions, and submission of required documents.

IPAC stated that the court’s decision would strengthen internal democracy within political parties and reduce unnecessary pressure associated with compressed electoral timelines.

The umbrella body also urged INEC to comply fully with the judgment and continue engaging political stakeholders to ensure credible and transparent preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The case followed legal challenges filed against aspects of INEC’s timetable, with critics arguing that some of the deadlines were inconsistent with provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.

Political observers say the judgment could significantly affect the planning strategies of major political parties, especially as early consultations and alignments ahead of the 2027 elections continue across the country.

The ruling has already generated reactions from opposition parties and civil society groups, many of whom argue that extended timelines could allow for broader participation and reduce disputes arising from rushed primary elections and candidate nominations.