INEC Issues Timeline for Candidate Nomination Portal, Warns Parties Over Deadlines

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced key dates and guidelines for political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, while urging strict compliance with electoral timelines and procedures.

INEC Chairman, Amupitan, cautioned that political parties must take the process seriously, stressing the need for proper preparation by their ICT units ahead of the nomination exercise, as deadlines would be strictly enforced.

He disclosed that on Friday, June 26, 2026, the commission will issue official access codes to all registered political parties to enable them access the Candidate Nomination Portal.

According to him, the access codes will allow authorised national officers of political parties to upload details, including names, personal information, and other required data of nominated candidates.

“The commission urges political parties to ensure their ICT personnel and relevant officers are adequately prepared, and that all submissions are completed well before the stipulated deadlines. The portal is fully automated and will close automatically at the expiration of the prescribed period,” he said.

The INEC boss also expressed concern over unresolved court cases relating to internal party leadership, describing them as distractions that could hinder smooth electoral preparations.

He called on political stakeholders to resolve such disputes promptly in order to keep the electoral timetable on track.

Reaffirming the commission’s independence, Amupitan assured stakeholders that the commission would continue to discharge its responsibilities impartially and in line with constitutional provisions.

He further encouraged political parties to intensify voter education and mobilise citizens for the Continuous Voter Registration exercise to ensure more Nigerians obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the polls.

According to him, the success of the 2027 general elections will depend not only on INEC’s preparedness but also on the commitment of political parties to democratic principles, including transparent primaries, rejection of violence, hate speech, vote buying, and the promotion of issue-based campaigns.

He added that INEC would ensure equal treatment for all political parties while strictly adhering to the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and all relevant guidelines.

Amupitan also noted that despite pending appeals against two Federal High Court judgments affecting parts of the electoral timetable, preparations for the 2027 elections would continue as scheduled under lawful court directives.