Movement and NNPP Challenge INEC Over Candidate Exclusions

The Movement and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) have filed petitions with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the exclusion of candidates from the final list for the 2027 elections in Kano and Oyo states. In Kano, hundreds of supporters protested at INEC's state office, led by deputy governorship candidate Mustapha Kwankwaso, demanding the reinstatement of their governorship candidate, Aminu Gwarzo.

Kano State Resident Electoral Commissioner Abdu Zango acknowledged receipt of the complaint and stated that there is an appeal window until October 24. The spokesperson for the Movement, Dr Habib Mohammed, also accused an INEC staff member of colluding to substitute candidates and called for an investigation.

In Oyo State, NNPP governorship candidate Adebiyi Adedapo has similarly petitioned INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan regarding his omission from the final list. This situation arises as President Bola Tinubu nominated five new officials to INEC, including the reappointment of Dr Bala Bila.