The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has petitioned the High Court of Imo State to halt the local government elections scheduled for September 26, 2026. Filed on September 16, the suit seeks an injunction against the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) and its chairman. APGA and four state executives argue that ISIEC's 360-day Notice of Election issued on September 18, 2025, was defective. They claim it failed to specify the election date, contravening the Electoral Act.
APGA also contends that ISIEC's September 11, 2026, announcement fixing the election date came too late. The party argues this could not rectify the alleged defect in the earlier notice. This development has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the impending council elections. Imo State's local government elections are crucial for the state's governance structure. The court's decision will determine whether the elections will proceed as scheduled.
The plaintiffs cited a 2025 Supreme Court judgment on Rivers State local government elections. The judgment emphasized that compliance with statutory requirements, including the Notice of Election and voters' register provisions, is mandatory. APGA argues that ISIEC's actions may undermine the electoral process. The party seeks to ensure that the elections are conducted in accordance with the law.
Furthermore, APGA noted that the Electoral Act 2022, under which the 2025 notice was issued, has been repealed by the Electoral Act 2026. The new act commenced in February, and APGA questions whether ISIEC complied with the statutory requirements for the Register of Voters. Specifically, the party inquires about the 90-day period for the cessation of registration and revision.
The Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) faces mounting pressure to address APGA's concerns. The commission's actions have been questioned by various stakeholders. The court's decision will have significant implications for Imo State's electoral process. A thorough examination of the electoral process will be necessary to ensure the legitimacy of the council elections.
The local government elections in Imo State are scheduled to take place on September 26, 2026. The elections will determine the leadership of the state's local councils. APGA's petition has added uncertainty to the electoral process. The court's intervention is crucial in resolving the disputes and ensuring that the elections are conducted fairly.
The court's decision on APGA's petition will have far-reaching consequences. If the court grants the injunction, ISIEC will be forced to revisit its electoral preparations. Conversely, if the court dismisses the petition, the elections will proceed as scheduled. The outcome will significantly impact Imo State's governance structure and the legitimacy of the council elections.
Key points
- APGA seeks court order to stop Imo State's September 26 council elections due to defects in electoral notice.
