By Kamal Yalwa: August 2, 2025
The Labour Party has condemned the omission of its candidates by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from participating in the upcoming August 16, 2025 bye-election, describing the move as unlawful, shocking, and an abuse of power.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Saturday, the party accused the electoral body of overstepping its constitutional boundaries and interfering in internal party affairs.
“As a duly registered political party in Nigeria, the Labour Party is fully aware of its rights under the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended) to sponsor candidates in all elections,” the statement read.
“The law does not empower INEC to stop any political party from fielding candidates, nor does it allow the commission to pick and choose which elections a political party can participate in.”
The party cited the April 4, 2025 Supreme Court judgement, clarifying that the ruling addressed only the issue of jurisdiction of lower courts and did not nullify the current leadership of the Labour Party. According to the party, the apex court emphasized that internal party disputes must be resolved through internal mechanisms.
“At no point did the Supreme Court empower INEC to interfere with the internal matters of a political party,” the statement added. “INEC cannot arrogate to itself the powers of the courts or interpret the ruling of the Supreme Court beyond what was clearly stated.”
The party demanded that INEC immediately upload the names of its duly nominated candidates for the forthcoming bye-election and cease any further interference in its internal affairs.
It further warned that proceeding with the bye-election without Labour Party representation would be a waste of resources and could result in legal consequences.
“The Labour Party will explore all lawful means to resist any attempt to harass, intimidate or ridicule our party. INEC’s actions, if not redressed, will be challenged in court.”
Urging its members and supporters to remain calm, the party assured that it is committed to protecting its candidates’ interests and will do everything within the law to ensure their names are listed for the August 16 bye-election.
It also called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue to pray for the country, expressing hope for a day when the electoral process will reflect fairness, justice, and accountability.
