Political parties in Nigeria have begun submitting their electronic membership registers to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, in line with the commission’s timetable.
INEC had set May 10, 2026 as the deadline for submission, extending it from the earlier April 21 date. The requirement follows provisions in the Electoral Act mandating parties to maintain a digital register of members for electoral processes.
Reports indicate that both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction aligned with Nyesom Wike have already submitted their electronic membership lists to INEC. The PDP submission reportedly contains about 418,087 registered members nationwide, reflecting records captured up to the time of filing.
Under the Electoral Act, political parties are required to maintain detailed digital records of members, including personal and identification data, and submit them to INEC at least 21 days before party primaries. The law also stipulates that only individuals listed in the submitted register are eligible to participate or contest in party primaries and conventions, and failure to comply could lead to disqualification from fielding candidates.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party is expected to hold its national convention and presidential primaries later in April 2026, though details of its submission to INEC remain unclear.
The PDP has also adjusted its timetable for internal elections, with its presidential primary now scheduled for May 26, following earlier revisions to the party’s overall schedule.
