Political parties have expressed differing positions over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) deadline for the submission of candidates for the 2027 general election, with some seeking another extension while others insist they complied fully with the commission’s timetable.
The extended deadline for political parties to upload the names and particulars of their presidential, vice-presidential and National Assembly candidates expired at midnight on Tuesday, July 14, after INEC shifted the original July 11 deadline following appeals from the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).
Despite the extension, the Accord Party called for additional time, citing internal challenges that affected its nomination process. However, INEC’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, said the commission had not considered any further extension and had no information suggesting one would be granted.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) dismissed reports that it failed to submit its presidential ticket before the deadline, maintaining that it uploaded the names and particulars of its candidates on July 10 in line with INEC’s timetable.
Similarly, the Labour Party (LP) denied claims of non-compliance, insisting it successfully uploaded its presidential, vice-presidential and National Assembly candidates before the nomination portal closed.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) said they had completed their submissions and would not seek any additional extension. Both parties commended the earlier extension granted by INEC, saying it provided enough time to finalise their nominations.
Meanwhile, legal disputes over candidate nominations continue to trail some political parties. A Federal High Court has reserved judgment in a suit filed by former presidential aspirant Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim against the Accord Party over the alleged failure to submit his name to INEC despite emerging from the party’s primary election.
The development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general election, with INEC insisting on adherence to the electoral timetable despite ongoing disputes over candidate nominations.
