The delay in the release of final candidate lists following the recently concluded party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections has continued to generate uncertainty among aspirants across Nigeria.
All major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), are yet to publish their official lists several days after completing their primaries.
While some parties have issued Certificates of Return to presidential candidates, many governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly aspirants are still awaiting confirmation of their nomination status.
Party insiders say the uncertainty is linked to ongoing internal reviews, dispute resolution processes, and efforts to manage grievances arising from highly contested primaries. In several cases, results announced at collation centres are still being reviewed by party leadership before final approval.
Leaders of some political parties have also indicated that only the national leadership has the authority to validate and announce final candidates, adding another layer of delay to the process.
The situation has sparked political tension, with meetings reportedly taking place between senior party figures and top government officials aimed at resolving disputes and managing fallout from the primaries.
Political observers note that the adoption of direct primaries by most parties, combined with attempts at consensus arrangements, has contributed to disputes, slower collation processes, and widespread dissatisfaction among aspirants.
Under the Electoral Act 2026, political parties are required to submit the names of candidates who emerged from valid primaries to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) within a specified timeframe, rather than immediately publishing full lists after primaries.
According to provisions of the law, INEC is responsible for publishing candidates’ personal particulars after receiving submissions from political parties, meaning parties are not strictly obligated to release final lists immediately after primaries.
Despite this, the delay has raised concerns among aspirants and political analysts, who warn that prolonged uncertainty could fuel internal party tensions and affect campaign preparations.
Some analysts argue that while the process remains legally compliant, continued disputes and unresolved grievances may weaken party cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.
Party officials maintain that the delay is temporary and linked to ongoing reconciliation efforts, assuring that final lists will be released once internal reviews and appeal processes are concluded.
