NNPP To Hold Convention Despite INEC Recognition Delay
The New Nigeria Peoples Party says it will proceed with its congresses and national convention, despite delays by the Independent National Electoral Commission in recognising the Dr Agbo Major-led leadership of the party as directed by court orders.
This is contained in a statement issued by the party’s founder, Dr Boniface Aniebonam, on Saturday in Lagos.
“Our programme of action to conduct congresses, primaries and convention has been submitted to INEC, and we are going ahead to participate in all elective positions, including the presidential election in 2027,” Aniebonam said.
He said INEC had continued to delay the upload and recognition of the NNPP National Working Committee led by Dr Agbo Major, despite court rulings
“The delays by INEC in obeying court orders, as well as the leadership tussle over the years, have denied the NNPP and its members many opportunities to participate in various elections nationwide.
“In view of this, we have decided to go ahead with our congresses and convention while awaiting INEC’s compliance with the court orders.
“We can no longer afford to deny our members the opportunity to participate in elections in Nigeria.
“The 2027 general elections are significant, and time is running out to prepare and allow members to indicate the positions they wish to contest,” he said.
According to him, the party will continue to pursue recognition of the Major-led National Working Committee by INEC.
“We expected INEC to obey the court orders. Unfortunately, this has not happened, and we have engaged the commission to understand the reason for its non-compliance, especially as there is no stay of execution or court order restraining compliance.
“Court orders supersede INEC’s decisions and actions, including internal disciplinary measures within a registered political party,” he said.
Aniebonam cited previous legal precedents, including cases involving Rotimi Amaechi and the Zamfara elections, as well as the experience of the late Arthur Nzeribe, to underscore the importance of compliance with court rulings.
