Appeal Court Upholds INEC’s 2027 Election Guidelines, Overturns High Court Ruling

The Court of Appeal has upheld the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s guidelines for the 2027 general elections, overturning an earlier judgment of the Federal High Court that had nullified the electoral framework.

In a unanimous decision, the appellate court set aside the May 20 judgment delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja, affirming the legality and validity of the guidelines issued by INEC for the conduct of the 2027 polls.

The Appeal Court ruled that the lower court erred in nullifying the electoral guidelines, effectively restoring the framework that will govern preparations and the conduct of Nigeria’s next general elections.

The decision is expected to provide greater legal certainty for political parties, candidates and electoral stakeholders as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.

The INEC guidelines outline key procedures for the nomination of candidates, political party primaries, campaign activities and other electoral processes ahead of the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state assembly elections.

The ruling marks a significant legal victory for the electoral commission and reinforces its authority to issue regulations guiding the administration of elections, subject to the provisions of the Electoral Act and the Constitution.

With the appellate court’s judgment, INEC can proceed with implementing its electoral timetable and operational guidelines unless the decision is further challenged at the Supreme Court.