Labour Party sues INEC over exclusion from Enugu by-election
Labour Party Sues INEC Over By-Election Exclusion
By John Alechenu
ABUJA — The Labour Party has initiated legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), contesting its exclusion from the Enugu North Senatorial District by-election scheduled for June 20, 2026.
The vacancy arose following the death of Senator Okey Ezea on November 18, 2025.
According to the party, it notified INEC on May 11, 2026, of its intention to conduct a primary election, which took place on May 25, 2026, resulting in the selection of Ambassador Simon Ejike Eze as its candidate.
In a statement from its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, the Labour Party stated that it was denied access to INEC’s nomination portal to submit its candidate’s information, despite fulfilling all necessary requirements.
The party reported unsuccessful attempts to rectify the situation prior to the submission deadline of June 2, 2026.
The Labour Party criticized INEC officials in Enugu State for allegedly failing to submit the primary election report, attributing this to the absence of a designated officer on the day of the event.
Emphasizing its compliance with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines, the party argued that administrative shortcomings should not impede electoral rights. It characterized its exclusion from the by-election as unwarranted, asserting its rightful interest in the race to fill the vacant seat.
While acknowledging confidence in INEC’s leadership, the party called for an investigation into the actions of Enugu officials and recommended sanctions if warranted.
The Labour Party urged its supporters to remain calm and expressed faith in the judiciary to address the matter.
For further details, refer to the original article on Vanguard News.
