INEC Denies Allegations of Candidate Tampering by NDC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected claims made by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) that its officials removed candidates nominated by the party for the 2027 general election and replaced them with unauthorized names. Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, stated that the commission lacks the constitutional and statutory authority to nominate candidates for political parties, which is solely the responsibility of the parties themselves.

Oketola mentioned that INEC would review its electronic and documentary records concerning the constituencies in question, particularly in Anambra State, to determine how the disputed names appeared on the candidate nomination portal. He emphasized that the commission's candidate nomination portal is designed for political parties to submit candidates' particulars, and all activities are electronically recorded, allowing for verification of entries.

Oketola urged the NDC to provide evidence if it has proof of any wrongdoing by INEC officials.