The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced adjustments to aspects of the timetable for the 2027 general elections, including an extension of the deadline for political parties to submit their membership registers.
The commission disclosed this in a statement issued by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
INEC said the adjustment followed concerns raised by political parties during a consultative meeting held on March 24, 2026, regarding the earlier deadline fixed between April 1 and April 21, 2026.
According to the commission, the decision was taken to align the timetable with the provisions of Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which mandates political parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before the conduct of their primaries.
Under the revised schedule, political parties are now permitted to fix dates for their primaries within the approved window of April 23 to May 30, 2026.
INEC also extended the deadline for the submission of party membership registers to May 10, 2026, from the earlier date of April 21.
Haruna said the adjustment ensures compliance with legal requirements and provides parties with adequate time to meet obligations necessary for a smooth electoral process.
He added that political parties must submit their registers not later than 21 days before their respective primaries, stressing the importance of adherence to the revised timeline.
The commission reiterated its commitment to conducting a credible and well-coordinated electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
By Friday Olokor
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