By EZEKIEL OBI, Abuja –
New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its failure to update the party’s current national executive list on its official website, a delay that is hampering the party’s operations ahead of upcoming state and other elections.
In a statement issued on Friday by the party’s National Secretary, Ogini Olaposi, the NNPP voiced frustration over INEC’s non-compliance with court orders recognizing Dr. Agbo Major as the legitimate National Chairman and Olaposi as National Secretary.
“We are deeply troubled by INEC’s refusal to adhere to binding court rulings,” Olaposi stated, referencing the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory’s judgment on April 3, 2025 (Suit No: FCT/HC/CV/5518/2024), which remains valid alongside a similar ruling from the Abia State High Court.
The party highlighted that INEC’s inaction, despite being actively involved in the legal proceedings, undermines Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
“This is the third time we are reminding INEC of its obligation,” Olaposi noted, pointing out that the court-ordered national convention in March 2025 led to the emergence of the new executive.
He described INEC’s delays as “administrative negligence” that is obstructing the party’s ability to fully engage in electoral processes.
The NNPP, further, alleged that INEC’s failure to update the leadership list has emboldened expelled members to falsely claim leadership roles, exploiting the party’s growing popularity and grassroots support.
“These individuals are using INEC’s lapses to destabilize our party,” Olaposi said, warning that such actions constitute “a dangerous assault on the Constitution, the judiciary, and the democratic rights of Nigerians.”
The party also accused expelled members, including former 2023 presidential candidate Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, of making baseless claims against the federal government while posing as NNPP representatives. “Their allegations, such as claiming marginalization of the North by President Bola Tinubu, are reckless and could incite unrest,” Olaposi added.
The NNPP has repeatedly disavowed such statements, but insists INEC’s inaction complicates efforts to clarify the party’s stance.
Despite formal reminders to INEC on April 11, April 14, and July 30, 2025, the commission has yet to act. The NNPP warned that INEC’s conduct risks eroding public confidence in the electoral body and could destabilize Nigeria’s political landscape.
“The international community and Nigerians are watching INEC closely,” Olaposi emphasized.
“We will not be silenced. The NNPP will pursue all legal avenues, including contempt proceedings, to ensure compliance.”
The party reaffirmed its commitment to upholding democracy and the rule of law, stating, “Nigerians deserve better, and we will not relent in defending the integrity of our party and the sanctity of our democracy.”
