Appeal Court Overturns Election, Accuses INEC of Partisanship

The Court of Appeal in Abuja slammed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday, accusing it of failing to remain impartial. Justice K. I. Amadi delivered the lead judgment in a case challenging the result of the Bauchi State House of Assembly election for the Ningi Central constituency.

According to the appellate court, it was improper for INEC to intervene in favor of a party in an election petition by disowning documents that the electoral body itself issued and certified. The court complained that INEC has continued to behave partially, despite its duty as the election manager to be a neutral umpire between political parties.

“INEC as an institution should be reminded of its role in elections, which is to serve as an unbiased referee,” the court stated. “It must stop acting irresponsibly, considering its duties have a direct impact on Nigeria’s political stability and peace.”

In a unanimous ruling, the panel voided the election of Abubakar Suleiman, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, who had previously been declared winner of the Ningi Central state constituency seat by INEC. The key appellate court decision highlighted the need for INEC to uphold integrity and impartiality in managing Nigeria’s electoral process.