Court Affirms INEC’s Power to Set Election Timetable but Orders Strict Compliance with Electoral Act

The Federal High Court in Abuja has upheld INEC’s authority to issue and revise election timetables. It ruled, however, that any timetable must strictly follow the timeframes set out in the Electoral Act 2026. The Social Democratic Party had challenged INEC’s March 27 timetable for reducing the 120-day nomination and 90-day withdrawal windows. Justice Omotosho held that while INEC may issue subsidiary legislation like a timetable, it acted ultra vires by shortening those statutory periods. The court granted SDP’s reliefs in part and ordered INEC to amend its 2027 election timetable to comply fully with Sections 29(1) and 31 of the Electoral Act 2026.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.