INEC Sets July 11, 2026, Deadline for Candidate Submission

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a deadline of July 11, 2026, for political parties to submit their candidates for the 2027 general elections. INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan disclosed this during a quarterly consultative meeting with political party leaders in Abuja.

The commission will issue access codes on June 26, 2026, allowing parties to upload candidate details to the nomination portal. Amupitan urged political parties to ensure their ICT personnel are prepared for the submission process, as the portal will automatically close after the deadline.

He expressed concern over unresolved court cases related to internal party leadership disputes, which could distract from electoral preparations. Amupitan reiterated INEC's commitment to uphold democratic principles and conduct transparent primaries while discouraging violence and hate speech.

He also encouraged parties to intensify voter education efforts and mobilize citizens for the upcoming elections.