LANDMARK RULING: Supreme Court Upholds Inmate Voting Rights

LANDMARK RULING: Supreme Court Upholds Inmate Voting Rights

By Gambo Jagindi
May 07, 2025

In a historic decision, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has delivered a landmark judgment affirming the constitutional right of inmates to vote in elections. The ruling, delivered on May 5, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the long-standing legal battle for inmate voting rights.

The case began with a Federal High Court ruling on December 16, 2014, which declared it unconstitutional for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deny inmates the right to vote. The Court of Appeal later affirmed inmates’ right to vote but left the logistics to INEC’s discretion. The Supreme Court has now clarified that INEC or the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has the discretion to determine how and where inmates will vote.

The Supreme Court’s ruling empowers INEC to take necessary steps to enable inmates to participate in the democratic process. The court held that INEC or NCoS can establish polling units within correctional centers or relocate inmates to the nearest polling units. This decision ensures that inmates can exercise their right to vote without facing unnecessary obstacles.

The Supreme Court’s ruling is a significant victory for democracy and the rights of Nigerian citizens. By affirming the constitutional nature of inmate voting rights, the court has set a clear precedent for future cases. The ruling also highlights the importance of protecting the rights of all citizens, including those in correctional facilities.

Aluta News reports that with this landmark ruling, INEC and NCoS must work together to implement the court’s decision and ensure that inmates can participate in future elections. The ruling also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the rights of all citizens and promoting inclusive democracy.