The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised its timetable for activities leading to the 2027 general election, extending the deadline for submission of political parties’ registers of members.
In a press release issued at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, INEC said the decision followed concerns raised during a meeting with political parties on March 24, 2026, regarding the earlier timeline for submitting party membership registers.
The commission explained that it adjusted the schedule to align with the 21-day requirement stipulated under Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act 2022. Political parties are now allowed to fix the dates for their primaries within the approved period from April 23 to May 30, 2026.
INEC emphasized that party registers must be submitted not later than 21 days before each party’s primaries. Consequently, the final deadline for submission has been extended to May 10, 2026, instead of the earlier April 21, 2026 date.
The statement, signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, urged political parties to adhere strictly to the revised timetable to ensure a smooth electoral process in Nigeria.
