ABUJA — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for the submission of political parties’ registers of members to May 10, 2026, shifting it from the earlier date of April 21.
The electoral umpire said the decision followed concerns raised by political parties over the tight timeline contained in the revised schedule for the 2027 General Election. The adjustment, according to the Commission, is aimed at ensuring inclusiveness and giving parties adequate time to comply with statutory requirements.
In a statement, INEC explained that the extension is in line with Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which mandates political parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before the conduct of their primaries.
“With the new deadline, political parties are expected to finalize and submit their updated membership registers in compliance with the law, ahead of their respective primaries,” the Commission stated.
INEC further clarified that parties can now schedule their primaries within the approved window of April 23 to May 30, 2026, as outlined in the electoral timetable. However, it stressed that all processes must strictly adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act and the Commission’s guidelines.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to conducting a credible, transparent and well-organised electoral process, urging political parties to take advantage of the extension to properly harmonise their membership data and avoid last-minute complications.
Political analysts note that the extension may ease pressure on parties still grappling with internal administrative processes, while also helping to reduce disputes that often arise from flawed or incomplete membership records ahead of party primaries.
