Here’s a rewritten version of the article:
A Federal High Court in Abuja has lifted an order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing the National Voter Register to the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC) for the local government election. Justice Peter Lifu vacated the order, citing its expiration after 14 days.
The court also dismissed the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) request to commit KWSIEC Chairman Okanlawon Baba to prison for allegedly violating a valid court order. Justice Lifu ruled that the contempt charge wasn’t served personally on Baba, violating section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.
The PDP had alleged that KWSIEC violated the Electoral Act 2022 and Kwara State Local Government Electoral (Amendment) Law, 2024. The party claimed KWSIEC’s actions breached sections 9, 28, 29, and 106 of the Electoral Act.
With the order lifted, KWSIEC can proceed with the local government election. The court’s decision paves the way for the electoral commission to conduct the polls.
Key points:
- Federal High Court lifts restraining order on INEC
- KWSIEC Chairman Okanlawon Baba avoids prison contempt charge
- PDP alleged electoral law violations by KWSIEC
- Court dismisses PDP’s request due to improper service
- Local government election to proceed in Kwara State
