By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political party leaders, and stakeholders. Consultative meeting on preparations for the Ekiti governorship election and a legal dispute over electoral timelines.** Tuesday, June 9, 2026, eleven days before the election. Nigeria. To finalize election arrangements and address issues arising from a recent court judgment. **Through stakeholder consultations and an appeal before the Court of Appeal.
INEC Holds Stakeholders’ Meeting Before Ekiti Governorship Poll
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, met with chairmen and secretaries of political parties on Tuesday as preparations intensified for the Ekiti State governorship election.
The meeting formed part of a series of consultations aimed at reviewing the commission’s readiness for the June 20, 2026 election.
INEC said the engagement would help political parties and the commission conclude preparations and ensure a smooth electoral process.
INEC Seeks Stay of Execution on Court Judgment
Meanwhile, INEC has filed a motion on notice seeking a stay of execution of a High Court judgment delivered on May 20, 2026.
The commission asked the court to suspend the implementation of the ruling pending the determination of its appeal before the Court of Appeal.
According to INEC, the appeal seeks clarification on issues relating to its constitutional powers and responsibilities.
Amupitan Explains Reason for Appeal
During his opening remarks, Amupitan defended the commission’s decision to challenge the court judgment.
He explained that the ruling addressed INEC’s authority to issue election timetables and regulate pre-election activities.
According to him, the court affirmed INEC’s power to release election timetables. However, it invalidated the commission’s authority to set deadlines for party primaries.
Amupitan argued that the decision created a contradiction that required judicial clarification.
He added that INEC approached the appellate court to obtain a definitive interpretation of the extent of its constitutional powers.
Focus on Election Readiness
The consultative meeting took place exactly 11 days before the Ekiti governorship election.
Stakeholders are expected to discuss operational, legal, and logistical matters that could affect the conduct of the poll.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting a credible, transparent, and peaceful election across the state.
The commission also emphasized the importance of collaboration with political parties to ensure a successful electoral process.
