Umar Ardo Seeks Stay on INEC Access Code Order

Umar Ardo, the leader of the Democratic Alliance (ADA), has requested a stay of execution from the Federal High Court in Abuja regarding an order that directs the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue an access code for party registration. This order, issued by Justice Peter Lifu, mandated INEC to release the access code within 72 hours, allowing the ADA to upload necessary documents, including its membership register.

Ardo contends that the order is illegal and claims that the INEC's actions could lead to significant disruptions in the electoral process. He filed a motion for a stay on June 30, 2026, arguing that the trial court erred in its judgment and that the suit filed by Akin Rickett and others was not statute-barred under Section 76 of the Electoral Act 2022.

Ardo's appeal seeks to set aside the order against INEC, asserting that the denial of registration could cause irreparable damage to the ADA.