INEC Files Appeal Against Court Judgment Nullifying May 10 Party-Defection Deadline

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally appealed a High Court judgment that nullified the May 10 deadline set for politicians to defect from one political party to another ahead of upcoming elections.

According to updates from legal proceedings, INEC is contesting the ruling on several grounds, listing over 60 technical objections it believes render the judgment defective and unsustainable.

The earlier court decision had reportedly invalidated the timeline imposed for party switching, a move that generated significant political debate among parties and stakeholders preparing for internal primaries and general elections.

INEC, in its appeal, is seeking to have the judgment overturned, arguing that the ruling interferes with its constitutional role in regulating electoral timelines and ensuring orderly political processes.

The appeal has further intensified discussions within political circles, especially as parties continue to manage defections, realignments, and internal primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Legal analysts say the outcome of the appeal could have far-reaching implications on party membership regulations and pre-election activities across Nigeria.

As of the time of filing this report, the matter remains before the appellate court, with stakeholders awaiting further judicial clarification.