An Ogun State High Court sitting in Kobape, Abeokuta, has set November 8, 2024, for the hearing of a lawsuit filed by the National Rescue Movement (NRM) against the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC).
The lawsuit challenges OGSIEC’s imposition of administrative fees on political parties participating in the upcoming local government elections.
The NRM is contesting the legality of the fees—N250,000, N150,000, and N100,000—levied by OGSIEC on candidates running for various positions in the scheduled November 16, 2024, local government elections.
In its originating summons (suit no: AB/741/2024), the party argues that the fees are unconstitutional and in violation of candidates’ eligibility rights under Nigerian law.
NRM, represented by Barrister Adekola Adedeji, also seeks an injunction to postpone the local government elections, citing inadequate time for political parties to conduct campaigns and make necessary preparations.
The party has requested that the court prevent OGSIEC from proceeding with the election until further consultations with all registered political parties and stakeholders are held.
In his argument, Adedeji contended that OGSIEC’s actions contravene several sections of the Nigerian Constitution (sections 7(1)(4), 106, 107, and 197(b)), as well as state electoral laws and OGSIEC guidelines.
He questioned whether OGSIEC has the legal authority to unilaterally set an election timetable and impose fees without consulting political stakeholders.
“For interpretation of sections of the Constitution and electoral laws, we seek clarity on whether the imposition of fees and unilateral setting of election schedules by OGSIEC is lawful,” Adedeji stated.
“We believe these actions are not only unconstitutional but also violate candidates’ rights to participate in the electoral process without undue restrictions.”
Adedeji further urged the court to declare the fees null and void, arguing that they impose unnecessary financial burdens on candidates and violate their eligibility rights under the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
Justice S.O. Adeniyi, presiding over the case, emphasized the urgency of the matter as a pre-election issue.
He instructed OGSIEC to file its defence within three days to allow for an expedited hearing on November 8, 2024.
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