Politics
INEC Gives Parties Last-Minute Lifeline, Extends 2027 Candidate Submission
said the extension reflected its commitment to accommodating stakeholders
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has extended the deadline for the submission of lists of candidates by political parties for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections from Saturday, July 11, to midnight on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
The Commission said the extension followed an appeal by the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, on behalf of political parties that were unable to upload the names and personal particulars of their candidates within the stipulated timeframe.
Announcing the decision in a statement on Sunday, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the extension was approved by the Commission.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved the extension of the deadline for submission of lists of candidates for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly Elections by political parties,” the statement said.
It added that “the deadline for submission in the Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election being Saturday, 11th July 2026 has been extended to midnight on Tuesday, 14th July, 2026.”
According to INEC, “the decision to extend was based on appeal by the Inter-Party Advisory Council, on behalf of political parties who were unable to upload the names and personal particulars of their candidates within the scheduled timeline.”
The electoral body said the extension reflected its commitment to accommodating stakeholders while remaining within the provisions of the law.
“The extension underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity in its practices, while acting within the ambit of the law,” the statement added.
INEC urged political parties to take advantage of the additional period to complete the submission process, saying, “The Commission enjoins political parties to take advantage of this window of opportunity and ensure that all necessary details are uploaded before the expiration of the new deadline.”
