The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is currently involved in at least six major legal disputes that could have significant implications for preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The cases, which are before the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal, challenge the commission’s powers, its revised election timetable, and the legal standing of some political parties.
The litigation comes just months after INEC unveiled its revised election schedule, which required political parties to submit membership registers between March 24 and April 25, conclude party primaries by May 31, and upload presidential and National Assembly candidates through its nomination portal between June 27 and July 11. Campaigns are scheduled to begin on August 19, while the presidential and National Assembly elections are slated for January 16, 2027, with governorship and state assembly elections to follow on February 6.
Youth Party Challenges INEC’s Timetable
One of the most prominent cases, FHC/ABJ/CS/517/2026, was filed by the Youth Party, which argued that INEC exceeded its legal authority by introducing timelines that allegedly conflict with provisions of the Electoral Act.
The party challenged deadlines relating to membership registers, party primaries, candidate nominations, withdrawals, substitutions, and publication of candidates’ particulars.
The Federal High Court ruled that while INEC has constitutional authority to organise elections and issue guidelines, it cannot alter timelines expressly provided in the Electoral Act. The court consequently invalidated portions of the revised timetable and restrained the commission from enforcing them.
INEC has appealed the judgment, arguing that the timetable is an integrated process in which every stage is interconnected and that removing certain timelines could disrupt preparations for the 2027 elections. The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment.
SDP Files Similar Suit
In Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/720/2026, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) also challenged aspects of the revised timetable, particularly provisions relating to candidate nomination and substitution.
Although the Federal High Court affirmed INEC’s authority to issue election guidelines, it ruled that the commission could not modify statutory timelines established by the Electoral Act. INEC has also appealed this judgment, insisting that the timetable is essential for orderly election management. Judgment is still being awaited.
Appeals Could Shape INEC’s Powers
The appeals arising from both cases are regarded as some of the most significant pre-election legal battles ahead of 2027.
INEC is asking the appellate court to overturn the High Court rulings, arguing that they unnecessarily restrict powers granted to the commission under the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
The Court of Appeal’s decision is expected to clarify the extent of INEC’s authority in setting administrative timelines for electoral activities.
Five Political Parties Face Deregistration Dispute
Another major case, FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, was instituted by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators against INEC and five political parties—the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord, Action Alliance (AA), Action People’s Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The Federal High Court ordered INEC to deregister the parties, but the Court of Appeal granted a stay of execution after the affected parties challenged the ruling, allowing them to retain their legal status pending the outcome of the appeals.
Legal Challenge Over NDC Registration
Another pending case, FHC/ABJ/CS/1115/2026, was filed by Ahidjo Ibrahim Karlahi against INEC and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The suit questions the legality of the party’s registration and asks the court to determine whether INEC complied with constitutional and statutory requirements. The outcome could determine the NDC’s eligibility before the final list of candidates is published.
Appeal Hearing Adjourned
The five political parties facing deregistration have also appealed the High Court judgment, asking the Court of Appeal to overturn the ruling.
When the matter came up on July 7, 2026, the appellate court adjourned proceedings until July 14 to allow all parties to regularise and exchange the necessary court documents.
The outcome of the appeals will determine whether the affected parties can sponsor candidates before INEC publishes its final list of presidential and National Assembly candidates on September 12.
Lawyers Weigh In
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ahamba, expressed confidence that the Court of Appeal would deliver its judgment in good time but declined to speculate on the likely outcome.
Another senior lawyer, Bankole Akomolafe, argued that the ongoing litigation should not derail INEC’s preparations, noting that the commission has acted prudently by continuing to receive candidate submissions while awaiting final court decisions.
According to him, the approach ensures that no eligible candidate or political party is unfairly excluded should the courts eventually rule in their favour.
INEC Insists Election Timetable Remains On Course
INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the commission remains committed to its election timetable despite the pending legal disputes.
He noted that political party primaries have concluded and that the deadline for submitting candidates remains July 11.
Haruna added that while INEC will comply with any final court rulings, it will continue implementing its election schedule until directed otherwise by the courts.