Breakaway NNPP faction calls for immediate enforcement of Federal Capital Territory Court ruling by INEC

A faction of the New Nigeria People’s Party is urging the Independent National Electoral Commission to swiftly enforce a Federal Capital Territory High Court order, which recognizes the Agbo Major-led National Working Committee of the party.

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This move comes after Justice Bello Kawu of the FCT High Court ruled on Tuesday that INEC should immediately recognize the Major-led NNPP NWC, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.

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In a statement issued on Saturday in Lagos, the party's National Secretary, Mr Ogini Olaposi, emphasized that INEC should no longer delay uploading its national executives on the commission’s website.

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The party expressed hope that the current INEC leadership would not disobey valid court orders and clear judgments, highlighting the need for compliance with the court's ruling.

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The court had restrained INEC from dealing with the Dr Ahmed Ajuji-led NWC members of the Kwankwasiya Movement, pending the outcome of the judicial review, and a court order was issued on Tuesday, March 17, by Justice Bello Kawu.

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This order compelled INEC to update its records within 72 hours to reflect the authentic national leaders of the NNPP, led by its Founder and Chairman Board of Trustees, Dr Boniface Aniebonam.

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The party expressed regret that INEC still received correspondence from the Ajuji group to stay execution, despite the fact that INEC's lawyer was present in court when Justice Kawu delivered his judgment.

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The party clarified that the notice of Appeal and Motion for Stay do not constitute an impediment to the execution of lawful court orders by INEC, and that no order for Stay of Execution has been granted by any court or served on INEC.

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The order of Justice Bello Kawu is specific, direct, and compelling, requiring INEC to update and recognize the Major-led NWC within 72 hours and revert to the original logo of the NNPP.

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The party urged its members to remain calm and continue with the membership drive nationwide, adding that with this development, the NNPP is now sure of fully participating in the 2027 general elections.

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The party reiterated that members who were expelled for anti-party activities remain expelled, but noted that those who defected to other parties would be welcomed back into the party.

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The party expressed optimism, stating that with their victory in court, they are now poised to thrive in the election and other off-circle elections nationwide, with the goal of making the NNPP a success.