INEC Directs Parties To Submit Registers 21 Days Ahead of Primaries

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed political parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before conducting their primaries for the 2027 general elections, in line with the Electoral Act, 2026.

The directive follows concerns raised by political parties over the earlier timeline for submission of registers, initially scheduled from April 1 to April 21, 2026.

In a statement issued yesterday, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the Commission had adjusted the timetable to align with the statutory requirement governing party primaries.

According to INEC, political parties are now free to fix dates for their primaries within the approved window of April 23 to May 30, 2026, provided they comply with the 21-day notice tied to the submission of their membership registers.

“The register of party members must be submitted to INEC not later than 21 days before the holding of their respective primaries,” the Commission stated.

INEC further explained that the adjustment effectively extends the final deadline for submission of membership registers to May 10, 2026, replacing the earlier deadline of April 21.

The Commission stressed that strict adherence to the revised timeline is crucial to ensuring transparency, effective monitoring, and the credibility of party primaries.

The new directive implies that any political party planning to hold primaries must first submit its updated membership register within the stipulated time frame, a move aimed at strengthening internal democracy and reducing disputes arising from irregular processes.

INEC urged all political parties to comply fully with the revised schedule to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.