2027: Chinda, Pantami, ex-IGP Adamu’s fate hangs in the balance

As the 2027 general elections approach, the Supreme Court's recent decision to uphold the validity of sections 77 and 84 of the Electoral Act 2026 has sparked uncertainties amongst the political landscape. The court's affirmation of these provisions, which govern party primaries and membership registers, was delivered on Thursday after a seven-man panel, led by Justice Adamu Jauro, reserved its judgement.

The apex court ruled in favor of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), overturning the previous decision made by the Court of Appeal.

The dispute arose from a case initiated by the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), which challenged specific provisions of the Electoral Act, arguing that they were inconsistent with the 1999 Constitution. Although the Federal High Court dismissed the ZLP's action, the party appealed the decision to the Court of Appeal. The appellate court later ruled in favor of the ZLP, but INEC appealed to the Supreme Court.

With the Supreme Court's final decision, two political parties, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Youth Party (YP), have seen their appeals dismissed. The court also dismissed the Youth Party's preliminary objection and declared it invalid due to being filed out of time. The apex court highlighted that the appeal was filed one day too late, rendering it invalid.

Amidst the ruling's impact, several political figures are speculated to be affected, including ex-IGP Mohammed Adamu, former Minister of Communications Sheik Isa Pantami, Rivers State's Kingsley Chinda, and Senator Saliu Mustapha of Kwara State. These individuals have all defected to other political parties after contesting previously on other platforms.

However, Senator Buba Umar, a candidate from Bauchi State, dismissed speculations, stating that he had adhered to all provisions of the electoral law and remained confident in his ambition to contest the upcoming election.