Former presidential candidate Dr. Gbenga Hashim has applauded the Federal High Court in Abuja for nullifying portions of the 2027 election timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, describing the ruling as a major victory for constitutional democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Hashim praised Justice M. G. Umar for what he called a courageous and principled judgment that checked administrative excesses and reaffirmed the supremacy of the Electoral Act 2026 over electoral guidelines issued by INEC.
The judgment was delivered in Suit No. FHC ABJ CS 517 2026 between the Youth Party and INEC. The court reportedly held that the electoral body exceeded its statutory powers by imposing restrictive timelines on political parties for primaries and other pre election activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to the development, Hashim revealed that he had previously written an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning against actions capable of undermining the Electoral Act and democratic processes.
“I have consistently argued that INEC must act within the confines of the Electoral Act. Unfortunately, those warnings were not heeded. This judgment has now vindicated that position,” he stated.
According to Hashim, the ruling is both timely and necessary because it protects the integrity of the electoral process and strengthens democratic governance in the country.
He further commended Justice Umar for demonstrating courage and commitment to justice, noting that the judgment would help restore public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Reports indicate that the court ruled INEC lacks the legal authority to fix timelines for party primaries or abridge statutory provisions regarding candidate submission, withdrawal, substitution, publication of final candidate lists, and campaign periods.
The court consequently set aside portions of INEC’s Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections that were found inconsistent with the Electoral Act 2026.
Hashim also urged INEC to fully comply with the judgment and ensure future electoral guidelines strictly align with the law.
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