SDP Seeks Reconciliation as INEC Assures Parties of Credible 2027 Polls, IPAC Pushes Electoral Reforms

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has extended an olive branch to aggrieved members amid recent leadership disputes, declaring its readiness to reconcile with dissatisfied stakeholders as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

National Chairman of the party, Sadiq Gombe, made the declaration on Tuesday while speaking with journalists after the quarterly consultative meeting between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political party leaders and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Abuja.

Gombe said the party remains committed to internal democracy and dialogue, urging members with grievances to utilize the SDP’s established dispute resolution mechanisms rather than resorting to public confrontations.

According to him, the party has substantially overcome its recent internal challenges and is focused on strengthening its structures ahead of the next electoral cycle.

INEC Promises Smooth 2027 Elections

Speaking at the meeting, INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, reassured political parties that the Commission remains fully committed to conducting credible, transparent and peaceful elections in 2027.

Amupitan said ongoing court cases challenging aspects of INEC’s timetable and schedule of activities for the general election would not derail the Commission’s preparations.

He emphasized that INEC would continue to engage stakeholders while pursuing legal clarity on issues raised before the courts to ensure a seamless electoral process.

IPAC Demands Electoral Act Review

Meanwhile, IPAC National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, called for an urgent amendment of the Electoral Act 2026, arguing that certain provisions have created avoidable challenges for political parties.

Dantalle specifically criticized the removal of indirect primaries from the electoral framework, saying the development imposed significant legal, operational and financial burdens on political parties during recent candidate nomination exercises.

He urged lawmakers to revisit the legislation to address gaps that could undermine political participation and party administration.

The IPAC chairman also appealed to political actors, security agencies and INEC to work collaboratively to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

According to him, sustained cooperation among stakeholders is essential to strengthening public confidence in elections and consolidating Nigeria’s democratic gains ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The meeting forms part of INEC’s ongoing consultations with political parties and electoral stakeholders as preparations intensify for what is expected to be one of Nigeria’s most closely watched elections in recent history.