The order came after a suit filed by the Action Alliance (AA) against INEC, accusing the commission of disobeying earlier rulings.
Background of the Case
The Action Alliance had approached the court to compel INEC to recognise all state chairmen elected under the leadership of Adekunle Rufai Omoaje’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
Justice Funmilola Demi-Ajayi had previously ruled in favour of the Action Alliance, affirming that the national convention that produced Omoaje was valid since it was conducted in line with the party’s constitution, monitored by INEC officials, and complied with the Electoral Act.
Despite this ruling, INEC reportedly failed to update its records to reflect Omoaje’s leadership, prompting contempt proceedings against Prof. Yakubu.
Court’s Ruling
In her latest judgment, Justice Demi-Ajayi expressed displeasure at INEC’s refusal to comply with a lawful order of the court. She directed that:
- The INEC chairman must restore the names of all state chairmen elected under Omoaje’s leadership on the commission’s portal within seven days.
- A cost of N100,000 was awarded against Prof. Yakubu.
- Should he fail to comply within the set timeframe, the Inspector-General of Police has been mandated to arrest him for contempt of court.
The ruling reaffirms the judiciary’s position that disobedience of court orders, particularly by public officials, will not be tolerated.
