Esther Salifu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has advanced to the verification stage of political party registration, with eight associations successfully completing the initial documentation phase, while six others failed to meet the required criteria.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, said the progress followed a review of developments at the commission’s regular meeting held on October 30, 2025.
According to Olumekun, the latest update builds on an earlier briefing provided by the Commission on September 11, after which 14 political associations were pre-qualified to proceed with the registration process.
A dedicated online portal for document submission was opened from September 18 to October 18, allowing associations to upload all necessary information. By October 19, eight associations had successfully completed their submissions.
The qualified groups are:
All Democratic Alliance, Citizens Democratic Alliance, Abundance Social Party, African Alliance Party, Democratic Leadership Alliance, Green Future Party, National Democratic Party, and Peoples Freedom Party.
Olumekun explained that the process has now moved into a crucial verification phase, during which INEC will assess the submitted materials for compliance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and the Commission’s 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties.
“This stage will ensure conformity with the legal and regulatory framework governing political party registration in Nigeria,” the statement read.
INEC reiterated its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the consolidation of Nigeria’s democratic system.
“The Commission wishes to reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and the deepening of Nigeria’s democratic culture,” Olumekun added.
The electoral body disclosed that a total of 171 associations had initially expressed interest in becoming registered political parties before the screening process narrowed the number down to 14.
With the verification phase now underway, INEC is expected to determine which of the eight associations will proceed to full registration as political parties eligible to participate in future elections.
