Labour Party takes INEC to court for being left out of Enugu by-election

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By John Alechenu

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ABUJA — The Labour Party has filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja challenging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its exclusion from the forthcoming Enugu North Senatorial District by-election scheduled for June 20, 2026.

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The seat became vacant following the death of Senator Okey Ezea on November 18, 2025.

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The party said it had informed INEC on May 11, 2026 of its plan to conduct a primary in line with electoral guidelines, which held on May 25, 2026 and produced Ambassador Simon Ejike Eze as its candidate.

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In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, the party said it was denied access to INEC’s nomination portal to upload its candidate’s details despite complying with all requirements.

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It added that repeated efforts to resolve the issue before the close of submissions on June 2, 2026 were unsuccessful.

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The Labour Party faulted INEC officials in Enugu State for allegedly failing to transmit the primary report, citing the absence of a designated officer on the day of the exercise.

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The party maintained that it met all legal obligations under the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines, arguing that electoral rights should not be undermined by administrative lapses.

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It further described its exclusion from the by-election as unjust, insisting it has a legitimate stake in the contest to fill the vacant seat.

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While expressing confidence in INEC leadership, the party called for an investigation into the conduct of its Enugu officials and possible sanctions where necessary.

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The Labour Party also urged its supporters to remain calm, saying it has confidence in the judiciary to resolve the matter.

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