RismadarVoice Reporters, May 21, 2026
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of delaying actions necessary for the party to conclude its screening processes and organise primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party, under the leadership of Dr Boniface Aniebonam, also warned that it could mobilise supporters for a protest in Abuja if the issues remain unresolved.
The position of the party was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by its National Secretary, Ogini Olaposi, who alleged that continued delays by the electoral commission could affect the party’s participation in future electoral activities.
According to him, the party had previously suspended plans for a protest after appeals from Nigerians who expressed concerns that such demonstrations could be hijacked by hoodlums and lead to unrest.
Olaposi stated that despite efforts through legal channels, including court proceedings, the party had continued to experience difficulties in securing what it described as compliance with judicial decisions relating to its leadership structure.
He alleged that the delays stemmed from disputes involving individuals who had previously been associated with the party.
The NNPP secretary also referred to a meeting between party leaders and officials of the electoral commission in Abuja on May 19, saying the engagement raised concerns over factors responsible for the continued delays.
According to him, the party expected INEC to act on court directives concerning the recognition of its National Working Committee led by Dr Agbo Major.
He argued that the commission, as a regulatory institution, should remain neutral and operate strictly within the limits of judicial and constitutional provisions.
The party also maintained that court orders had directed changes relating to party leadership recognition and associated party identity elements, including its logo and symbols.
Olaposi claimed that despite the judicial pronouncements, implementation had yet to take place.
He further argued that the issue extends beyond the party itself and touches on broader concerns involving respect for judicial authority and constitutional governance.
According to him, repeated delays have already affected the party’s participation in certain off-cycle elections, adding that the party would continue seeking enforcement of court decisions.
The NNPP stated that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right and indicated that it may consider further action if the situation remains unresolved.
INEC had not issued an official response to the latest allegations at the time of reporting.
