The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), demanding the suspension of all elections until its authentic logo and leadership are recognised on ballot papers.
The request was contained in a letter dated August 25 and addressed to INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. The letter, signed by the party’s counsel, Mr. Ndubuisi Ukpai (Esq.), was made available to journalists in Lagos on Wednesday.
In the correspondence, Ukpai stated that INEC must refrain from conducting elections until the logo of the NNPP is properly reflected and the party, under the leadership of Dr. Major Agbo as National Chairman, is fully recognised.
He reminded INEC of previous court judgments affirming Agbo’s leadership, noting that the commission had failed to implement them. He added that the Federal Capital Territory High Court had on August 15 granted leave for judicial review proceedings compelling INEC’s compliance.
The party argued that the law requires INEC to maintain the status quo while the matter is before the court, warning that any contrary action would undermine judicial authority. Citing the Supreme Court ruling in Governor of Lagos State v. Ojukwu (1986), Ukpai stressed that no public institution is permitted to disregard subsisting judgments.
The NNPP also asked INEC to withdraw recognition from a faction of allegedly expelled members led by Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, who it said was unlawfully parading himself as leader. The party warned that any attempt to convene a National Executive Committee meeting by the faction on August 28 would be “null and void.”
It further cautioned INEC against attending or monitoring the meeting, insisting that doing so would amount to interference in a matter sub judice.
The party said its appeal was intended to ensure compliance with constitutional provisions, particularly Section 287(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates all authorities to give effect to court decisions.