2027 Elections: INEC deadline sparks last-minute rush by parties

Opposition political parties are rushing to meet the deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for submitting their membership registers ahead of the 2027 general elections.

INEC had earlier extended the deadline from March 27 to May 10, 2026. According to the commission, political parties must submit their membership lists at least 21 days before holding their primaries. Since party primaries are expected to begin on May 30, the final date for submission became May 9.

Several opposition parties told The PUNCH they had either completed the process or were putting final touches to it before the deadline expired.

The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) said it had already submitted its membership register in three volumes and claimed it had members across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) also confirmed compliance with the INEC directive. Party officials said they had completed the process before INEC officials visited for verification. The SDP leadership described its membership strength as encouraging.

The Labour Party (LP) said it had fully complied with the Electoral Act and revealed that it was recording surprising growth in northern Nigeria. According to the party, registration figures from states such as Taraba, Adamawa and Benue were higher than expected.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and African Action Congress (AAC) also confirmed that they complied with the deadline.

INEC explained that submission of membership registers is important because it helps the commission confirm the authenticity of party members and monitor compliance during party congresses and primary elections.

The electoral body said the directive was based on Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act 2026, which requires political parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before conducting primaries.

As the deadline approached, many political parties reportedly intensified membership registration drives, held emergency meetings and continued coalition talks to avoid problems that could affect aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.