Former presidential candidate Gbenga Hashim has praised Justice Umar for nullifying INEC’s timetable on party membership register submission, describing the judgment as a victory for democracy and constitutional order.
Gbenga Hashim Commends Court for Nullifying INEC Timetable
Former presidential candidate and political activist Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has commended Justice Umar of the Federal High Court for nullifying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable that fixed a deadline for political parties to submit updated membership registers.
Hashim described the court’s ruling as a landmark judgment that would strengthen democracy, uphold constitutional rights, and ensure fairness in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Federal High Court had earlier nullified the deadline imposed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ruling that the electoral body could not enforce an unreasonable timetable without adequate consultation with political parties and stakeholders.
The court subsequently granted political parties until September 2026 to submit their updated membership registers.
Reacting to the development, Hashim praised Justice Umar for what he termed a courageous and constitutionally sound decision that protected the democratic rights of political parties across the country.
Hashim Says Judgment Protects Democracy
Speaking shortly after the ruling, Hashim stated that the judgment reaffirmed the independence of the judiciary and demonstrated that democratic institutions must always operate within constitutional limits.
According to him, the decision sends a strong message that regulatory agencies cannot impose arbitrary conditions capable of undermining political participation.
He noted that many political parties, particularly smaller and emerging parties, were already struggling with logistical and financial challenges associated with updating nationwide membership records.
Hashim argued that the earlier timetable issued by INEC would have placed unnecessary pressure on political organizations and could have weakened multiparty democracy in Nigeria.
“This judgment is not just about political parties; it is about the protection of democratic values and the rule of law,” he reportedly said.
He further emphasized that political inclusiveness remains a critical pillar of democratic governance and that all parties should be given a fair opportunity to comply with electoral regulations.
Court’s Decision Described as Timely
Hashim also described the court’s intervention as timely, especially at a period when political activities ahead of the 2027 elections are gradually gathering momentum.
He explained that compiling accurate membership registers across Nigeria’s diverse political and geographic landscape requires substantial time, planning, and coordination.
According to the former presidential candidate, the court correctly recognized the practical difficulties associated with nationwide membership verification exercises.
He added that the ruling would help prevent confusion and unnecessary disputes between political parties and the electoral commission.
Political analysts have also noted that the judgment could improve relations between INEC and registered political parties by encouraging broader consultation and stakeholder engagement.
Observers say the extension granted by the court may allow parties to strengthen their structures, improve data accuracy, and ensure greater transparency in internal party administration.
Calls for Electoral Reforms
While commending the judiciary, Hashim also called for broader electoral reforms aimed at deepening democratic practices in the country.
He urged INEC to adopt more inclusive policies that would support political participation rather than create administrative obstacles for parties seeking compliance.
According to him, electoral reforms should focus on transparency, accountability, and equal opportunities for all political actors regardless of size or financial strength.
Hashim stressed that democracy thrives when institutions work collaboratively with stakeholders rather than imposing unilateral decisions.
He also appealed to political parties to use the extended timeframe responsibly by updating their membership databases and strengthening internal democratic processes.
Analysts say accurate membership registers remain essential for credible party primaries, transparent candidate nominations, and effective electoral planning.
Stakeholders React to the Judgment
The ruling has continued to generate reactions from political stakeholders, legal experts, and civil society organizations across the country.
Several opposition parties welcomed the judgment, describing it as a victory for constitutional democracy and political fairness.
Some party leaders argued that the original timetable introduced by INEC was unrealistic and failed to account for operational challenges facing many political organizations.
Civil society groups also applauded the judgment, insisting that electoral regulations should encourage wider political participation instead of limiting it.
According to governance advocates, the court’s decision reinforces the principle that government agencies and regulatory bodies must always act within the confines of the law.
However, some supporters of INEC defended the commission’s earlier directive, maintaining that updated membership registers are necessary to improve transparency and strengthen electoral administration.
They argued that the commission’s intention was to sanitize the political system and ensure compliance with the Electoral Act.
Despite differing opinions, many observers agree that the ruling has opened a new chapter in the relationship between political parties and the electoral umpire.
Implications Ahead of 2027 Elections
The judgment is expected to have major implications for political preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political parties are likely to intensify membership registration drives, internal restructuring, and grassroots mobilization efforts over the coming months.
Experts believe the additional time granted by the court could improve the quality and credibility of party membership records if properly utilized.
The ruling may also influence future judicial interpretations regarding the powers of INEC and the extent of its regulatory authority over political parties.
For emerging political movements and smaller parties, the extension represents an opportunity to consolidate their support base and expand nationwide structures before the next election cycle.
Election analysts say the decision could ultimately contribute to a more competitive and inclusive political environment.
Judiciary Praised for Upholding Rule of Law
Hashim concluded by praising the judiciary for safeguarding democratic principles and defending constitutional order.
He said the judgment serves as proof that the courts remain a vital pillar of democracy capable of checking executive and administrative excesses.
According to him, Nigerians must continue to support institutions that promote justice, fairness, and constitutional governance.
As reactions continue to trail the ruling, attention is now focused on how INEC and political parties will navigate the extended timeline ahead of the September 2026 deadline.
Many stakeholders believe the judgment offers an opportunity for greater cooperation between the electoral commission and political parties in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of future elections.
