2027 Elections: INEC Extends Deadline for Party Membership Register Submission

The Independent National Electoral Commission has adjusted its timetable for the 2027 general elections, extending the deadline for the submission of political parties’ registers of members.

The decision followed concerns raised by political parties during a consultative meeting held on March 24, 2026, regarding the earlier timeline scheduled from April 1 to April 21, 2026.

In a press statement issued on Friday and signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the Commission said the adjustment was necessary to align with the 21 day requirement stipulated under Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026.

INEC stated that political parties are now free to conduct their primaries within the approved window of April 23 to May 30, 2026, provided they comply with the revised schedule.

According to the Commission, parties must submit their membership registers at least 21 days before the date of their primaries.

With the adjustment, the final deadline for submission of party registers has been extended to May 10, 2026, instead of the earlier April 21, 2026.

INEC emphasised the importance of strict adherence to the revised timetable, noting that compliance is critical to ensuring a smooth and credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.