The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified a directive issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) requiring political parties to submit membership registers and related databases by May 10, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Delivering judgment on Thursday, Justice M.G. Umar ruled that INEC exceeded its powers by introducing timelines that conflict with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
The court held that the commission cannot lawfully shorten timelines already established by law for pre-election procedures.
The suit was filed by the Youth Party, which argued that INEC’s directive violated the legally recognised 120-day window for submission of candidates’ particulars and party documents before elections.
Justice Umar agreed with the argument, citing Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, which provides that political parties must submit candidate information not later than 120 days before an election.
The court ruled that INEC lacked the authority to alter or abridge the statutory timeline through administrative guidelines.
The judgment effectively invalidates the earlier May 10 deadline and grants registered political parties until September 2026 to submit updated membership registers and other relevant documents.
The ruling is expected to affect political activities ahead of the 2027 elections, especially as parties continue consultations, internal alignments, and preparations for party primaries.
INEC had earlier maintained that its guidelines were consistent with the Electoral Act and the approved election timetable.
The commission has fixed January 16, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, while governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
