UMUAHIA – The Abia Patriots (TAP) have commended the Federal High Court in Abuja for nullifying portions of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) revised timetable for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on May 22, 2026, the group’s Secretary General, Mazi Adindu Madumere, described the ruling by Hon. Justice M.G. Umar as a demonstration of “courage and fidelity to the Constitution” and a timely intervention for Nigeria’s democracy.
According to reports of the judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/517/2026 between the Youth Party and INEC, Justice Umar held that the electoral body acted outside its statutory powers by imposing timelines inconsistent with the Electoral Act, 2026.
The court found that INEC cannot shorten statutory deadlines for political parties to submit candidates’ particulars, noting that Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act requires submission not later than 120 days before an election. The court also stated that parties retain a 90-day window to withdraw and substitute candidates, and that INEC lacked powers to impose an earlier cut-off.
Additionally, the court held that publication of the final candidates’ list must not occur earlier than the 60-day minimum prescribed by law, and that campaign closure dates set by INEC two days before elections conflicted with Section 98 of the Electoral Act.
Consequently, the court set aside the affected portions of INEC’s Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to the judgment, Madumere said the ruling “exposes a calculated attempt to manipulate the electoral calendar to the disadvantage of opposition parties.” He argued that the voided timetable was designed to shrink the space for opposition mobilization, particularly in states like Abia where citizens are demanding credible alternatives.
“We believe this ruling will counter the plot to weaken opposition parties by restoring fairness and predictability to the electoral process; strengthen judicial oversight as a check on administrative overreach within INEC; build public confidence that the courts remain the last refuge of the common man; and advance the cause of the people of Abia State,” he stated.
The Secretary General described the decision as one that reinforces the supremacy of the law and restores confidence in democratic institutions.
Madumere urged INEC to accept the judgment rather than appeal it.
“INEC must now prove its constitutional independence by maintaining neutrality and refraining from the temptation of appealing this well-reasoned ruling. The Commission’s duty is to the Nigerian people, not to any political party. By accepting the court’s decision and working transparently to issue a compliant timetable, INEC will reaffirm its role as an impartial umpire and safeguard the integrity of our democracy,” he said.
The Abia Patriots said they remain committed to defending democracy, the rule of law, and the right of the people of Abia State to freely choose their leaders.
