Party Registration: Allegations Of Political Manipulation Not Unfounded – Yiaga Africa

The Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Mr. Samson Itodo, has stated that concerns that Nigeria’s party registration process may be manipulated to limit political competition were “not entirely unfounded.”

Itodo however insisted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is guided by clear constitutional and legal frameworks.

Speaking on ARISE News Morning Show on Friday, Itodo responded to questions surrounding INEC’s recent registration of two new political parties out of over 100 political associations that initially applied.

“When it comes to political party registration, there are political shenanigans. One of the tactics sometimes employed by incumbents or political actors is to ensure that a cohesive or strong opposition does not emerge,” Itodo said.

He added, “I would not discount some of the perceptions that have been expressed by people about the weaponisation of democratic instruments to limit the registration of political parties.”

However, the Yiaga Africa boss stressed that party registration is a rule-based and systematic process regulated by the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act, and INEC’s regulations and guidelines.

“There are expansive criteria and procedures clearly outlined. In fact, INEC’s guidelines provide about four different stages that any political association seeking registration must meet,” he said.

According to him, where associations fail to comply, INEC is empowered to act. “When there is default on the part of those seeking registration, expect the commission as a regulatory institution to activate its powers,” Itodo explained.

He noted that some associations have threatened to seek judicial redress, a move he described as legitimate. “It is within their right to do so. Some of the existing political parties today were registered as a result of court orders,” he said.

On concerns that legal action may not be resolved in time for the 2027 general elections, Itodo clarified the timelines under the Electoral Act. “Any political association that wants to be on the ballot for the 2027 elections must be registered 12 months before the election date,” he said, adding that party mergers must be concluded nine months before elections.

He revealed that with the likely election date slated for February 20, 2027, the window for registration is rapidly closing.

While advising aggrieved associations to approach the courts, Itodo also urged INEC to adopt a more confidence-building approach.

“Before wielding the big stick, INEC should take parties into confidence, invite them to meetings, and explain areas of default. This helps to build trust and demonstrate independence from external influence,” he said.

He maintained that minor or non-substantial errors should be addressed through engagement rather than outright exclusion.

Speaking on electoral reforms, Itodo criticised the National Assembly for missing its deadline to amend the Electoral Act. “We were told that by December, the amendment would be ready for presidential assent. That deadline has been missed,” he said.

He blamed the delay on the Senate, noting that the House of Representatives had completed its work. “INEC is expected to issue the 2027 election timetable by February, so time is not on our side,” he warned.

Highlighting key proposed reforms, Itodo said the amendment would provide a legal mandate for electronic transmission of results and strengthen the discipline of Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Concluding, he cautioned that legal reforms alone would not guarantee credible elections without attitudinal change by the political actors.

“We will be having a new Electoral Act, but if political actors do not change their attitude, then all these efforts will be an exercise in futility,” he said.