The Coalition of United Political Parties has applauded a judgment by the Federal High Court directing the Independent National Electoral Commission to review its election timetable ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The coalition said the ruling is expected to have a major impact on preparations for the next nationwide polls.
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Speaking on the development, CUPP National Secretary, Peter Ameh, said Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a decision that reinforces the rights of political parties and strengthens internal democratic processes.
According to Ameh, leading political parties have jointly urged INEC to immediately implement the court’s directives by adjusting its electoral timetable.
He explained that the judgment broadens democratic participation by giving political parties more freedom in managing their internal affairs and primary election processes.
“The court’s pronouncements have widened the democratic space by granting political parties greater flexibility in conducting their internal activities,” Ameh stated.
He further noted that the ruling struck down the controversial requirement mandating parties to submit their registers 21 days before activities.
Ameh added that the judgment also exempted substitution primaries from the strict timelines contained in the Electoral Act regarding replacement of candidates.
According to him, the court maintained that INEC lacks the authority to unilaterally fix dates for internal party affairs or reduce deadlines for submission and publication processes.
“We commend the Federal High Court for delivering a judgment that aligns with constitutional principles. INEC should immediately comply by revising its timetable,” he said.
Ameh warned that any attempt to challenge the judgment on appeal could create confusion ahead of the 2027 elections and weaken public trust in the electoral system.
“Any move to appeal this decision may generate unnecessary uncertainty, diminish public confidence, and affect the credibility of the 2027 general elections,” he added.
He also disclosed that 14 political parties had agreed to extend their primary election schedules to accommodate new members and encourage broader participation.
According to him, the parties believe the ruling will deepen internal democracy and better protect the interests of aspirants and candidates.
Ameh further explained that the judgment allows politicians who lose primaries in one party to defect and still emerge as validly substituted candidates under another platform.
He urged INEC to collaborate closely with political parties in designing a practical and realistic electoral timetable.
The CUPP secretary reaffirmed that political parties remain committed to ensuring transparent, credible, and peaceful elections in 2027 through lawful democratic processes.
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