The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has not reached a final decision on the deadline for political parties to submit candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, following recent court judgments that questioned parts of its electoral guidelines.
The commission explained that it has not yet held a formal meeting to review the implications of the rulings or determine how they will affect ongoing preparations for party primaries and nomination processes.
INEC noted that while it is bound to comply with court decisions, it has also filed an appeal challenging aspects of the judgments it disagrees with. It added that its current position is to obey existing rulings while awaiting further legal clarification.
The development follows conflicting decisions from the Federal High Court in Abuja. One ruling struck down parts of INEC’s guidelines, especially provisions setting deadlines for the submission of candidates, on the grounds that such rules exceeded the commission’s legal authority.
In contrast, another judgment upheld INEC’s power to issue and adjust election timetables as long as they remain within the limits of the law. The differing interpretations have created uncertainty around how the electoral body’s regulations should be enforced.
INEC has since approached the Court of Appeal, seeking to overturn the ruling that limits its powers. The commission says it will continue operating cautiously until a final judicial resolution is reached.
The uncertainty has left political parties in a difficult position as they prepare for internal primaries and candidate selections ahead of the 2027 elections.
