The National Rescue Movement (NRM) has issued a stern warning to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, over his alleged refusal to recognize Edozie Njoku as the party’s national chairman. This follows a January 16, 2025 ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which ordered INEC to acknowledge Njoku’s position after overseeing the party’s emergency convention. Despite the court’s decision, INEC has yet to comply, five months later.
NRM’s legal team recently issued a letter dated June 4, cautioning Prof. Yakubu that he risks being cited for contempt of court—a charge that could lead to imprisonment if proven. The party insists INEC’s failure to act amounts to a breach of judicial authority, especially since no appeal was filed within the court-allowed 90-day period. Njoku emphasized that Yakubu’s continued defiance will not go unchallenged and that the party is prepared to pursue legal enforcement.
Now unified under Njoku’s leadership, the NRM is focused on rebuilding its political structure nationwide, with plans to open 18 new offices and begin mobilization ahead of the 2027 elections. Njoku also hinted at potential alliances with other parties following consultations with stakeholders. However, the impasse with INEC remains a critical hurdle that may shape the party’s next legal and political moves.