By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Independent National Electoral Commission on Friday confirmed that all 22 registered political parties submitted their membership registers ahead of the 2027 general election in Nigeria. The Commission disclosed this in Abuja through a statement signed by Mohammed Haruna, Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee. INEC explained that the submissions followed an extended deadline approved after consultations with political parties over concerns about the original timetable for the election process.
INEC Extends Deadline After Stakeholders’ Meeting
INEC said the extension followed a stakeholders’ meeting held on March 24, 2026, with political parties. During the meeting, several parties raised concerns about the timeline contained in the revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election.
As a result, the Commission moved the deadline for submitting party membership registers from April 21, 2026, to May 10, 2026. INEC said the adjustment aligned with Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the dates fixed by parties for their primaries.
According to the Commission, all registered political parties submitted their registers by May 8, 2026, two days before the extended deadline.
Political Parties Conduct Primaries Within Approved Window
INEC also stated that political parties received approval to conduct their primaries between April 23, 2026, and May 30, 2026.
The Commission added that parties must submit membership registers at least 21 days before their respective primaries. Furthermore, INEC confirmed that all parties complied with the requirement within the approved timeframe.
INEC Promises Verification of Membership Registers
The electoral body assured Nigerians that it would verify all submitted membership registers in line with the law.
INEC also reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections ahead of the 2027 general election.
Mohammed Haruna noted that the Commission remains focused on strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process through strict compliance with electoral regulations.
