Juliet Ezeh
Nigeria’s electoral preparations for the 2027 general elections have recorded a key development as the INEC confirmed that all 22 registered political parties have submitted their membership registers in line with the Electoral Act 2026.
The commission disclosed that the submissions were completed as of May 8, 2026, two days before the extended deadline of May 10, 2026.
The development follows concerns earlier raised by political parties regarding the initial deadline contained in the revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections.
The original deadline for submission of membership registers was fixed for April 21, 2026. However, after a meeting with political parties held on March 24, 2026, the commission approved an extension to allow more time for compliance.
The new deadline of May 10, 2026, was announced on March 27, 2026, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timelines for party primaries.
According to the commission, political parties are permitted to conduct their primaries within the period from April 23, 2026, to May 30, 2026. The law requires that party membership registers be submitted not later than 21 days before the conduct of primaries.
The commission stated that all registered political parties complied with the requirement within the extended timeframe.
It added that the submitted membership registers will undergo verification in accordance with the law and established guidelines.
The commission noted that the submission of party registers is part of the statutory requirements for the conduct of elections and is essential for the organisation of party primaries and nomination processes.
It reiterated its commitment to conducting free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections.
The statement was issued by the Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee and dated May 15, 2026.
The commission also emphasized that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure that the electoral process proceeds in line with the legal framework guiding the 2027 general elections.