Election Timetable Dispute: INEC Moves to Protect Constitutional Powers

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has defended its decision to challenge a recent court judgment limiting its powers to determine timelines for political party primaries ahead of elections.

The defence came during a consultative meeting between the commission and leaders of political parties as preparations intensify for the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti State.

INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan said the commission’s appeal seeks judicial clarity over what it considers contradictions in the ruling.

According to him, while the court affirmed INEC’s authority to publish election timetables, it simultaneously questioned the commission’s power to determine timelines for party primaries and candidate submissions.

The commission argued that such powers are essential for effective election management and ensuring orderly pre-election activities.

 INEC has therefore approached the Court of Appeal seeking a stay of execution pending determination of the substantive appeal.

The meeting with political parties forms part of a broader series of consultations aimed at ensuring readiness for the Ekiti governorship election.

Stakeholders are expected to review logistics, voter education, security arrangements and other critical preparations ahead of the poll.