The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved eight political associations to advance to the next stage of registration as political parties, while six others have been disqualified for failing to meet the legal and administrative requirements set by the electoral body.
Announcing the development on Thursday in Abuja, INEC said the decision followed a thorough screening of applications submitted by political associations seeking registration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tighter Screening Process
According to the commission, all applications were assessed based on the provisions of Section 222 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Section 79 of the Electoral Act 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties (2022).
The eight successful associations, whose names will be published after due verification, reportedly satisfied the basic requirements — including having functional national offices in Abuja, evidence of membership spread across at least 24 states, a registered constitution, and a manifesto reflecting national character.
However, six associations were disqualified after failing to meet one or more of these mandatory conditions. INEC noted that deficiencies ranged from incomplete documentation to failure to demonstrate nationwide presence or comply with constitutional provisions on inclusivity.
INEC’s Position
An INEC spokesperson explained that the commission remains committed to upholding the integrity of the political party registration process.
“The right to form political associations is guaranteed by the Constitution, but only those that meet all legal and institutional requirements will be registered,” the spokesperson said.
“Our goal is to ensure that only credible, nationally representative, and legally compliant parties are allowed to contest elections.”
INEC added that the clearance does not amount to full registration, as the successful associations will still undergo further scrutiny before being granted certificates of registration.
What This Means
The latest decision underscores INEC’s renewed effort to streamline Nigeria’s political space and ensure that only serious, credible, and nationally structured parties are allowed to operate.
Political analysts say the move could reduce the proliferation of weak or inactive parties that have, in the past, cluttered Nigeria’s electoral ballot.
They also believe that the tighter vetting process will enhance voter confidence and promote accountability among party founders.
Next Steps
INEC is expected to publish the names of the cleared associations in the coming weeks after completing final documentation.
The disqualified groups may, however, seek redress or reapply in the next registration cycle.
Observers view this development as part of INEC’s broader institutional reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections, aimed at sanitising the country’s electoral ecosystem.
In Summary
INEC’s clearance of eight associations and disqualification of six marks a decisive step in enforcing the legal framework guiding political party formation in Nigeria.
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The commission’s firm stance signals that the era of lax party registration may be over, paving the way for a leaner and more credible political landscape.
