As Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has come under increasing scrutiny over its handling of applications from groups seeking registration as political parties. With more than 100 organizations reportedly awaiting approval, INEC's measured approach has sparked criticism, public concern, and allegations of political bias.
In response to growing speculation, INEC recently addressed claims that it had registered two new political parties—the “Independent Democrats (ID)” and the “Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM).” In a statement issued on June 18, 2025, the commission described the reports as “fake news” and urged the public to disregard them. INEC emphasized that its processes remain grounded in the Constitution, particularly Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and other relevant legal frameworks—not in political influence or media pressure.
Despite this assurance, the commission’s delay in processing registration applications has drawn widespread criticism. Prominent political figures, including former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and ex-APC National Vice Chairman Comrade Salihu Lukman, have accused INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, of deliberately stalling efforts by opposition groups to form new parties.
Lukman, in particular, argued that INEC’s failure to formally acknowledge submitted applications could be interpreted as a breach of Section 75 of the Electoral Act, 2022. His concerns echo those of emerging political movements such as the Movement of the People (MOP) and the Patriotic Peoples Party (PPP), which claim that some of their applications have been pending since 2021, with no access to INEC’s official registration portal.
These mounting frustrations have fueled speculation that INEC may be intentionally slowing down the registration process ahead of the 2027 elections. However, the commission insists that it is following a thorough verification process, guided by statutory timelines. According to INEC, the window for new party registrations will close by February 2026, in line with constitutional mandates.
INEC's track record also reveals its firm stance on compliance. In February 2020, the commission deregistered 72 political parties for failing to meet constitutional requirements. While some of these parties, such as the Youth Party (YP) and Boot Party (BP), were later reinstated by court rulings, INEC has consistently argued that legal and procedural integrity must remain paramount.
Adding another layer to the conversation, the House of Representatives on March 6, 2025, passed the second reading of a bill proposing to transfer the responsibility of political party registration from INEC to an entirely new independent agency. The proposal reflects a growing dissatisfaction among stakeholders who feel the current process lacks transparency and efficiency.
As Nigeria’s political terrain continues to evolve, the question of how new parties are registered has become a focal point. While INEC’s commitment to legal compliance is commendable, its sluggish handling of applications risks eroding public confidence in the electoral process.
With the February 2026 deadline fast approaching, Nigerians—particularly prospective political actors—are urged to rely solely on official INEC platforms, including its website and verified X (formerly Twitter) handle @inecnigeria, for accurate and timely information.
Ultimately, the coming months will test INEC’s resolve to strike a balance between upholding the law and enabling democratic participation. Whether it chooses to open the space to fresh political voices or continues its cautious approach, all eyes will be on the commission as 2027 draws nearer.