NNPP remains adamant on holding party congresses amid INEC's refusal to adhere to judiciary rulings

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has affirmed its decision to proceed with its congresses, which will ultimately lead to the party's national convention, regardless of whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) complies with court orders recognizing the Dr Agbo Major-led leadership.

n

This resolution was conveyed in a statement issued by the party's founder, Dr Boniface Aniebonam, on Saturday in Lagos, where he outlined the party's plans to move forward with its electoral preparations.

n

Dr Aniebonam stated that the party has already submitted its programme of action to INEC, which includes conducting congresses, primaries, and conventions, with the aim of participating in all elective positions, including the presidential election, in 2027.

n

He expressed frustration that INEC has continued to delay in uploading the NNPP National Working Committee led by Dr Agbo Major, as ordered by the courts, which has resulted in the party missing out on various electoral opportunities over the years.

n

The leadership tussle and INEC's delays in obeying court orders have led the party to decide to hold its congresses and convention while awaiting INEC's compliance with the court orders, as the party can no longer afford to deny its members the chance to participate in elections.

n

The 2027 general election is a significant one, and time is of the essence for the party to prepare and allow its members to indicate their interest in contesting for various positions, according to Dr Aniebonam.

n

The NNPP will not relinquish its efforts to get INEC to update its records and recognize the leadership of the Dr Agbo Major-led national working committee, as the party expects INEC to obey the court order.

n

Dr Aniebonam noted that the party had anticipated INEC's compliance with the court order, but unfortunately, the commission did not obey, prompting the party to engage with INEC to understand the reason behind its disobedience.

n

He emphasized that court orders take precedence over INEC's decisions and actions, including the internal disciplinary measures of a registered political party, citing the experiences of Rotimi Amechi and the Zamfara declaration as examples.

n

Dr Aniebonam also reminded INEC not to forget the experience of the late Arthur Nzeribe, who had stopped elections when his party was disenfranchised from participating, highlighting the importance of INEC's compliance with court orders.