By Our Correspondent

National News – The Inter-Party Advisory Council has praised the recent judgment of the Federal High Court which nullified sections of the 2027 election timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The ruling, delivered in Abuja on Wednesday, declared that INEC lacked the authority to shorten timelines already provided under the Electoral Act 2026.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/517/2026, was filed by the Youth Party.

The party challenged the revised electoral timetable, arguing that changes affecting party primaries, candidate nominations, withdrawals, replacements, publication of candidates’ lists and campaign periods violated the Electoral Act.

Justice M. G. Umar ruled that INEC could not legally reduce statutory timelines established by law.

According to the court, administrative guidelines issued by the electoral commission must remain within the limits of the Constitution and existing electoral laws.

Reacting to the judgment on Friday, IPAC National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Martins, described the ruling as a major victory for democracy, constitutional order and the rule of law in Nigeria.

He stated that the judgment reaffirmed the supremacy of the Constitution over administrative directives.

Martins explained that although INEC has the power to issue election guidelines, such regulations must not override provisions already stated in the Electoral Act.

He further called on the INEC chairman to improve consultation and engagement with political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

IPAC also noted that the court decision would help prevent exclusionary practices capable of disenfranchising political parties and aspirants seeking elective positions.

Political observers believe the judgment could significantly influence preparations for the 2027 elections and compel INEC to review parts of its revised timetable in compliance with the law.