INEC Extends Deadline for 2027 Election Submissions

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the timeline for the submission of party membership registers and the conduct of primaries for the 2027 general elections. The new deadline for political parties to submit their membership registers is now set for May 10, 2026, an extension from the original date of April 21, 2026.

This adjustment was made following amendments to the Electoral Act 2026 and concerns raised by political parties during consultations with INEC on March 24, regarding the initial timeline coinciding with the Ramadan period. INEC Chairman Moham Kudu Haruna emphasized the importance of compliance with the revised schedule to ensure a smooth electoral process.

Political parties are permitted to conduct their primaries within the approved window from April 23 to May 30, 2026, and must adhere to the timeline to avoid disruptions in the electoral process.