The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised key components of the timetable for the 2027 general elections, including extending the deadline for political parties to submit their membership registers.
This was made known in a statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to INEC, the adjustment followed concerns raised by political parties during a consultative meeting held on March 24, 2026, over the earlier deadline scheduled between April 1 and April 21.
The commission explained that the revision aligns with Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which requires parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before conducting primaries.
Under the new timetable, political parties can now hold their primaries between April 23 and May 30, 2026. Meanwhile, the deadline for submitting membership registers has been extended to May 10, 2026, replacing the previous April 21 cutoff.
Haruna noted that the adjustment ensures compliance with legal provisions while giving parties sufficient time to meet necessary requirements for a seamless electoral process.
INEC also emphasized that parties must adhere strictly to the rule of submitting their registers no later than 21 days before their primaries.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible, transparent, and well-organized election as preparations continue for the 2027 general polls.
