The New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) has issued a strong warning that it may initiate contempt proceedings against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if the commission fails to obey existing court orders within seven days.
The NNPP stated that it is prepared to seek justice up to the Supreme Court if necessary, insisting on fairness and due process.
In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Mr. Ogini Olaposi, the NNPP accused INEC of repeatedly disregarding court directives, warning that such actions could disrupt the electoral timetable if legal action continues to escalate.
Olaposi further noted that INEC’s failure to comply with court rulings could lead to adjustments in preparations for the 2027 general elections, particularly regarding the recognition and administration of political parties.
He described the situation as troubling, questioning why an institution led by senior legal professionals would allegedly refuse to obey valid court orders.
The party referenced a recent High Court judgment in the Federal Capital Territory, which directed INEC to update its records, recognise the Dr. Agbo Major-led National Working Committee of the NNPP, and submit an affidavit of compliance within 72 hours.
According to the NNPP, INEC has not complied with the ruling even weeks after the order was issued and served, with no clear explanation provided for the delay.
The party stressed that INEC must ensure equal treatment and adequate preparation time for all political parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
It also called on key national institutions, including the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Bar Association, to intervene and review the situation.
NNPP warned that ignoring court orders poses a serious risk to Nigeria’s democratic process and urged INEC to correct its actions immediately.
The party also advocated for a comprehensive reform of INEC, particularly its legal department, to restore public confidence and strengthen democratic institutions.
Olaposi added that the commission’s current actions appear inconsistent with the principles of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration.
Backstory…
The crisis started within the NNPP over the recognition of its legitimate leadership structure. A faction led by Dr. Agbo Major claims it is the authentic National Working Committee of the party and had sought legal backing to be officially recognised.
A Federal Capital Territory High Court reportedly ruled in favour of that faction, ordering INEC to update its records, recognise the Agbo Major-led executive, and file proof of compliance within 72 hours.
However, INEC has not fully implemented the court’s directive, which has led to growing frustration from the NNPP. The party now alleges that the commission is ignoring court orders, and this has escalated into threats of contempt proceedings and possible legal action up to the Supreme Court.
In simple terms: it’s a leadership dispute inside NNPP, a court ruling to settle it, and INEC’s alleged delay in implementing that ruling is what triggered the current tension.
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