INEC Urged to Disqualify Non-Compliant Candidates for 2027

The House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters, led by Chairman Mr. Bayo Balogun, has requested the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to audit candidates submitted by political parties for the 2027 general elections. This request, made in a letter dated September 30, 2026, is based on the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the validity of Section 77(5) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which stipulates that only party members listed in the membership register can participate in primaries.

Balogun noted that INEC had previously hesitated to enforce this provision due to ongoing judicial proceedings. However, he asserted that the Supreme Court's decision has clarified the legal landscape, allowing INEC to proceed with enforcing the relevant sections of the law.

The committee emphasized the need for an audit to ensure compliance and warned that any political party or candidate found in violation should face disqualification, aiming to prevent post-primary litigation regarding candidate eligibility.