Nigerian judiciary's growing influence on elections raises concerns for 2027 polls
via Punch Nigeria13 min read
Nigeria's democracy is increasingly defined by court interventions, with pre-election and post-election litigation becoming a significant feature. This trend is causing concern ahead of the 2027 general elections, as rival political factions and the Independent National Electoral Commission are embroiled in legal battles. Despite a Supreme Court ruling affirming political parties' internal affairs, lower courts continue to interfere, leading to conflicting judgments. Recent examples include attempts to deregister the African Democratic Congress and the National Democratic Congress, whose presidential candidates are Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, respectively. The Court of Appeal recently barred INEC from recognizing congresses conducted by the David Mark-led executives of the ADC, while a Federal High Court judge astonishingly reversed his own 2025 judgment to register the NDC. Another Federal High Court in Abuja affirmed David Mark as the National Chairman of the ADC, ruling it lacked jurisdiction over internal party matters. However, a Federal High Court in Abuja directed INEC to deregister several parties, including the ADC, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, Action Peoples Party, and Action Alliance, a decision later overturned by the Court of Appeal. These appellate court interventions highlight a troubling pattern of High Courts defying higher court decisions, which the National Judicial Council is urged to address to protect the credibility of the 2027 elections. The ar
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The Nigeria Football Federation has issued a warning to Nigeria Premier Football League clubs, urging full compliance with club licensing regulations for the upcoming 2026/27 season. The NFF, with the backing of the National Sports Commission, plans strict enforcement of these rules. This warning follows a communiqué from the NFF Executive Committee meeting in Asaba, Delta State, where the NSC's commitment to supporting the licensing framework was welcomed. These measures are part of broader reforms in the domestic league, which include a proposed N2.5bn prize pool for the 2026/27 NPFL season and an increase in the minimum player salary from N150,000 to N2m. NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, stated that these reforms aim to professionalize the league, making it more competitive and attractive to players, thereby preventing them from seeking opportunities in other countries. The NPFL board has tentatively scheduled the 2026/27 season to commence between August 27 and 29, concluding on May 28, 2027, with the President Federation Cup fixtures also integrated into the structured domestic football calendar.
Portuguese top-flight club SC Braga has completed the signing of 18-year-old Nigerian defender Adebisi Olamikun from Nigeria Premier Football League side Inter Lagos. Inter Lagos confirmed the transfer, noting Olamikun's reputation as one of the country's brightest young defenders. Reports indicate the left-footed centre-back has signed a long-term contract in a deal valued at approximately €50,000. Olamikun has already arrived in Portugal and will begin his development with Braga’s youth team, aiming to progress to the senior squad. His move follows an impressive period at Inter Lagos, where his composed displays and defensive qualities made him a standout young talent in the NPFL. This transfer highlights Inter Lagos' growing success in nurturing players for European football. According to Transfermarkt, Olamikun is the eighth Nigerian to join Braga, following in the footsteps of players like former Super Eagles defender Elderson Echiejile.
World record holder Tobi Amusan has qualified for the 2026 Wanda Diamond League Final in the women’s 100m hurdles. She accumulated 28 points from five Diamond League meetings, securing her spot in the season-ending championship scheduled for September 4 and 5 in Brussels, Belgium. Amusan is currently second in the Diamond League standings with 28 points, behind American Masai Russell who leads with 32 points. Both athletes have upcoming races in London, Lausanne, Silesia, and Zurich before the final. Russell holds the fastest time this year at 12.14s, while Amusan's season's best is 12.28s, achieved three times. Amusan will aim for her fourth Diamond League title in Brussels, having won three consecutive crowns from 2021 to 2023. She also holds the world record in the event, set at 12.12s four years ago.