Court Gavel
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Maitama, has affirmed the right of an eligible voter to challenge the conduct of the 2023 presidential election.
Justice Peter Kekemeke delivered the ruling while dismissing a preliminary objection filed by the Independent National Electoral Commission in a suit brought by Dr. Ephraim Okoye.
INEC had argued that the court lacked jurisdiction and that the claimant had no legal standing. However, the judge held that every voter has the right to demand accountability in the electoral process.
He ruled that the claimant, having participated in the election, has sufficient interest to question the conduct and outcome, stressing that the judiciary must ensure accountability in democratic governance.
Justice Kekemeke stated that courts can no longer avoid electoral disputes under the excuse of non-interference, adding that the law must evolve with societal demands for transparency.
The case has been adjourned to September 24 for further hearing.
In the substantive suit, Okoye is seeking declarations that INEC failed to properly transmit results from his polling unit during the February 25, 2023 presidential election.
He is also requesting the correction of alleged false results, publication of authentic polling unit data, N50 million in damages, and a public apology in national newspapers.
Counsel to the claimant, Mr. James Onyemaechi, welcomed the ruling, describing it as a reaffirmation of the judiciary’s role as a guardian of democratic accountability.
