Labour Party sues INEC over exclusion from Enugu by-election

By John Alechenu

ABUJA — The Labour Party has filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja challenging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its exclusion from the forthcoming Enugu North Senatorial District by-election scheduled for June 20, 2026.

The seat became vacant following the death of Senator Okey Ezea on November 18, 2025.

The party said it had informed INEC on May 11, 2026 of its plan to conduct a primary in line with electoral guidelines, which held on May 25, 2026 and produced Ambassador Simon Ejike Eze as its candidate.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, the party said it was denied access to INEC’s nomination portal to upload its candidate’s details despite complying with all requirements.

It added that repeated efforts to resolve the issue before the close of submissions on June 2, 2026 were unsuccessful.

The Labour Party faulted INEC officials in Enugu State for allegedly failing to transmit the primary report, citing the absence of a designated officer on the day of the exercise.

The party maintained that it met all legal obligations under the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines, arguing that electoral rights should not be undermined by administrative lapses.

It further described its exclusion from the by-election as unjust, insisting it has a legitimate stake in the contest to fill the vacant seat.

While expressing confidence in INEC leadership, the party called for an investigation into the conduct of its Enugu officials and possible sanctions where necessary.

The Labour Party also urged its supporters to remain calm, saying it has confidence in the judiciary to resolve the matter.

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