NNPP to hold convention despite INEC recognition delay

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) is signaling its intent to forge ahead with its internal democratic processes, including congresses and a national convention, even as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) continues to delay official recognition of its leadership. This stance, articulated by party founder Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, underscores a growing impatience with what the party perceives as deliberate obstruction by the electoral umpire.

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Our programme of action to conduct congresses, primaries and convention has been submitted to INEC, and we are going ahead to participate in all elective positions, including the presidential election in 2027.

According to Dr. Aniebonam, the NNPP has submitted its program of action for congresses, primaries, and the convention to INEC. However, the commission has yet to acknowledge and upload the National Working Committee led by Dr. Agbo Major, a leadership structure affirmed by court orders. This ongoing delay has, in the party's view, cost them valuable opportunities to participate in various elections across the nation.

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The delays by INEC in obeying court orders, as well as the leadership tussle over the years, have denied the NNPP and its members many opportunities to participate in various elections nationwide.

The NNPP leadership is resolute in its decision to proceed with its electoral preparations, asserting that they can no longer disenfranchise their members. With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the party feels an urgent need to finalize its internal arrangements to allow members to vie for positions. Simultaneously, the NNPP intends to continue its legal and administrative pursuit of INEC's compliance with the court rulings that validate the Major-led executive.

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In view of this, we have decided to go ahead with our congresses and convention while awaiting INEC’s compliance with the court orders.

Dr. Aniebonam highlighted that court orders are supreme and should supersede any decisions or internal measures by INEC. He referenced past legal precedents to emphasize the importance of adhering to judicial pronouncements, expressing disappointment that INEC has not yet complied despite the absence of any restraining orders. The party's move signals a potential escalation in its engagement with INEC over recognition and compliance issues.

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We can no longer afford to deny our members the opportunity to participate in elections in Nigeria.