May 25, 2026
By Ejiro Ofoye
The recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which nullified critical portions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections, is not only historic but constitutionally salutary. It is a judicial reaffirmation of the supremacy of statute over administrative discretion and a timely reminder that even institutions clothed with constitutional authority must operate strictly within the boundaries of the law.
Justice Mohammed Umar, in a far-reaching decision, held that INEC exceeded its statutory powers when it imposed timelines that effectively abridged periods expressly guaranteed under the Electoral Act 2026.
The court consequently nullified portions of INEC’s revised electoral timetable relating to the conduct of party primaries, submission of candidates’ particulars, withdrawal and substitution of candidates, publication of the final list of candidates, and campaign deadlines.
