By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has expressed concern over recent developments involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and judicial interventions in political party leadership disputes, warning of potential risks to Nigeria’s democratic stability ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a press release issued Friday in Abuja and signed by its Executive Director, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the organisation said the situation raises critical legal and constitutional questions regarding INEC’s powers and the role of the judiciary in internal party affairs.

FENRAD noted that while INEC is constitutionally mandated to regulate political parties and oversee electoral processes, its actions must reflect clarity, consistency, and independence.

“INEC… bears the responsibility of regulating political parties, ensuring compliance with statutory provisions, and maintaining the integrity of the electoral process,” the statement read.

The group acknowledged that court orders are binding on institutions, including INEC, but cautioned against what it described as uncritical enforcement, particularly in complex political disputes.

“Such compliance must not be reduced to mechanical enforcement… INEC is expected to exercise its constitutional mandate… ensuring that its actions do not inadvertently deepen ambiguity,” FENRAD stated.

It further highlighted the complexities surrounding the application of the doctrine of 'status quo ante bellum,' especially in cases where the previous state of affairs remains contested.

On the role of the judiciary, the organisation raised concerns about increasing court involvement in internal party disputes, warning that excessive intervention could have unintended consequences.

“Excessive or inconsistent judicial intervention risks politicising the courts and may encourage factions within political parties to rely on litigation rather than internal democratic mechanisms,” the statement said.

FENRAD warned that the current trend could have far-reaching implications for the 2027 elections, including disruption of candidate nomination processes, increased factionalism, and declining public trust in democratic institutions.

“The current situation presents significant risks… including erosion of electoral certainty, proliferation of factionalism, and decline in public confidence,” it added.

The organisation called on INEC to maintain strict neutrality and provide clear, transparent decisions, while urging the judiciary to exercise restraint in political matters.

It also advised political parties to strengthen internal democratic processes and reduce dependence on court interventions.

“Political parties must prioritise internal dispute resolution mechanisms and democratic governance,” the group stated.

FENRAD stressed that credible elections in 2027 would depend on the integrity and independence of key institutions.

“The path to credible elections… begins with decisive, transparent, and lawful actions today,” the statement concluded.