The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced 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 submissions followed an extension granted after political parties raised concerns over the original timeline during a stakeholders’ meeting held on March 24, 2026.
INEC stated that all registered parties completed the submission process by May 8, 2026, two days ahead of the extended deadline.
The Commission explained that it had earlier adjusted the deadline from April 21, 2026, to May 10, 2026, through a press statement issued on March 27, 2026. The adjustment was made to align with Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the approved timetable for party primaries ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Under the revised schedule, political parties are permitted to conduct their primaries between April 23 and May 30, 2026, while party membership registers were required to be submitted at least 21 days before their respective primaries.
INEC further disclosed that the submitted registers would undergo the necessary verification processes in accordance with the law.
The electoral body reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue.
