Politics
Court Stops Fresh INC Election, Clears Way for Swearing-In of New Executives
Court Stops Fresh INC Election, Clears Way for Swearing-In of New Executives
The High Court of Justice, Warri Judicial Division, Delta State, has affirmed the outcome of the recent Ijaw National Congress (INC) election and restrained attempts to disrupt the inauguration of newly elected national officers.
Justice Anthony Olotu Akpovi delivered the ruling on Friday, May 8, 2026, while dismissing a preliminary objection filed by the first defendant, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, in Suit No. W/125/2026.
The suit was instituted by High Chief Macdonald E. Igbadiwei Esq. on behalf of the newly elected INC National Executive against several defendants, including INC President, Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, and members of the 2026 Electoral Committee.
The claimant had approached the court seeking an interlocutory injunction to prevent any interference with the swearing-in of officials elected during the April 13, 2026 INC national election pending the determination of the substantive matter.
In his ruling, Justice Akpovi held that the case was properly filed before the Delta State High Court and rejected claims that the claimant engaged in forum shopping.
The court noted that no valid court order existed restraining the conduct of the election or the inauguration of the elected officers.
Justice Akpovi further ruled that the urgency of the matter arose from alleged plans to obstruct the swearing-in ceremony, stressing that any grievances arising from the election must follow lawful judicial procedures.
The court consequently granted the claimant’s application for interlocutory injunction, restraining the defendants from disrupting the inauguration or conducting another election pending the final determination of the suit.
The judge also directed security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to maintain peace and ensure adequate security during the swearing-in ceremony.
In addition, the court clarified that the constitution of the INC does not limit inauguration ceremonies to Bayelsa State alone, stating that such activities could legally hold in Rivers or Delta States.
The matter was adjourned for accelerated hearing, with the court fixing May 29 and June 29, 2026, for further proceedings.
