Former Presidential Candidate and prominent member of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, has applauded the landmark judgment of the Federal High Court which nullified critical aspects of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) revised electoral timetable for the 2027 General Elections.
Prof. Adesanya-Davies described the judgment delivered by Justice M.G. Umar as “a victory for democracy, constitutionalism, internal party democracy, and the rule of law,” stressing that no institution, including Independent National Electoral Commission, should operate above the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Reacting to the ruling, the former presidential candidate stated:
“This courageous judgment by the Federal High Court has restored hope in Nigeria’s democratic process. The judiciary has once again demonstrated that democracy must be governed by law and fairness, not arbitrary directives. INEC must immediately obey the judgment and adjust its illegal timetable accordingly.”
Prof. Adesanya-Davies emphasized that the court ruling has widened democratic participation by affirming the constitutional rights of political parties and aspirants. According to her, the judgment strengthens party autonomy, protects political inclusion, and prevents administrative overreach capable of undermining credible elections
She particularly commended the court for affirming that:
Politicians who lose primary elections retain the constitutional right to defect to another political party and still participate lawfully in the electoral process.
INEC lacks the unilateral authority to dictate internal party schedules and timelines outside constitutional provisions.
The controversial 21-day party register requirement was inconsistent with democratic freedoms.
Substitution primaries and nomination processes must not be subjected to oppressive and unrealistic deadlines.
Prof. Adesanya-Davies warned that any refusal by INEC to comply fully with the judgment could trigger constitutional crises, political tension, and unnecessary litigation ahead of the 2027 elections.
She further called on all political stakeholders, civil society organizations, religious leaders, youth groups, and the international community to support lawful electoral reforms that guarantee free, fair, transparent, and inclusive elections in Nigeria.
“Nigeria’s democracy can only survive where justice prevails over impunity. Electoral integrity demands fairness to all political parties, regardless of size or influence. This judgment is not merely about timelines; it is about protecting democratic freedoms and preventing electoral manipulation,” she added.
The respected academic and political leader also praised the leadership of the Coalition of United Political Parties under Chief Peter Ameh for defending democratic principles through lawful constitutional means.
Prof. Adesanya-Davies urged INEC to work collaboratively with political parties in restructuring a realistic and lawful electoral timetable that reflects the directives of the Federal High Court and the aspirations of Nigerians for credible elections in 2027.
She concluded by calling for peace, national unity, and responsible political engagement among all Nigerians as preparations intensify toward the next general elections.
Princess Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies an academic, linguist don, former 2019 presidential candidate is an advocate of humanity, peace and good governance in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Signed:
Office of Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies
Former Presidential Candidate
Member, Coalition of United Political Parties
Abuja, Fct, Nigeria
