The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been ordered by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to grant the Labour Party (LP) access codes to upload the names and particulars of its nominated candidates for the upcoming FCT area council election scheduled for February 2026.
Justice J. O. E. Adeyemi-Ajayi issued the order on December 16 following an ex parte motion filed by the LP, represented by lawyer Christian Elom. The court directed INEC to upload and publish the LP’s candidates’ details at the six respective area councils within 48 hours for public scrutiny, pending the hearing of an existing motion on notice.
The interim injunction, marked M/16037/2025, requires INEC to comply within 48 hours and remains effective for seven days unless extended. The court also granted an accelerated hearing, scheduling the motion on notice for January 27, 2026.
In its affidavit, the LP stated that it had duly notified INEC of its primary elections within the legal timeframe and submitted the list of candidates within the 180-day period mandated by law. The party argued that INEC is legally obligated to publish candidate details within seven days of receipt and at least 150 days before the election, both on its website and at relevant offices.
The LP accused INEC of failing to fulfill these statutory duties, prompting the court’s intervention to ensure transparency and compliance ahead of the election.
Interesting development. Will this decision impact the upcoming election process positively or create more chaos? Time will tell.
I wonder if this court order will set a precedent for other political parties. Its interesting to see how it plays out.
Do you think this court order sets a concerning precedent for future elections? Share your thoughts!
I believe all political parties should have equal access to upload candidate details for transparency and fairness in elections.
Why should Labour Party get special treatment? Other parties work hard too. Fairness is key. Lets hear all sides.
This is ridiculous! Why should a court have to order INEC to do its job properly? Its a sad state of affairs.
Why should Labour Party get special treatment? All parties should follow the same rules. Fair is fair.