The Independent National Electoral Commission, Independent National Electoral Commission, has confirmed that all 22 registered political parties in Nigeria have successfully submitted their membership registers in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
According to the Commission, the political parties met the revised deadline of May 10, 2026, completing the process just two days before the expiration of the extended timeline. The submission is considered a major step in preparations for the 2027 general elections.
INEC explained that the initial deadline for the submission of membership registers was fixed for April 21, 2026, as contained in the Commission’s Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 polls. However, following concerns and requests raised by party leaders during a consultative meeting held on March 24, 2026, the electoral body approved a two-week extension.
The extension was officially communicated through a press statement released on March 27, 2026.
INEC noted that the adjustment became necessary to align with Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act 2026, which requires political parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before conducting party primaries.
Under the revised schedule, political parties were permitted to conduct their primaries between April 23 and May 30, 2026, allowing enough time for compliance with legal requirements ahead of candidate nominations.
INEC stated that all registered political parties complied within the approved timeframe and confirmed that the submitted membership registers would now undergo verification in accordance with the law.
The Commission emphasized that the verification process is part of efforts to ensure transparency, accountability, and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process as preparations intensify for the 2027 general election.
