The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed receiving 110 applications from associations seeking registration as political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections — the highest number since 2019.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this on Wednesday during the second regular consultative meeting with media executives in Abuja. He emphasized that all applications will be treated fairly and strictly in accordance with the law, regardless of the status or identity of the promoters.
Among the associations that have submitted letters of intent is the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), backed by former INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, which has so far not met the registration criteria.
Yakubu appeared to address recent concerns raised by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who is a promoter of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA). El-Rufai had recently claimed on Arise News’ PrimeTime programme that INEC might not approve the registration of the ADA. Without naming El-Rufai directly, Yakubu stated that the commission remains impartial and will evaluate all applications based on merit.
“As of Monday, June 23, 2025, the Commission has received letters of intent from 110 associations wishing to register as political parties,” Yakubu said. “We are processing the requests diligently, in line with our legal framework and the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines available on the Commission’s website.”
Yakubu rejected insinuations that the commission was stalling or acting under partisan influence. “Suggestions that INEC is equivocating or compromised are entirely baseless,” he said, recalling similar accusations made in 2013 during the political party merger that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He highlighted INEC’s record in political party registration, noting that the Commission registered 91 parties ahead of the 2019 elections, which produced 73 presidential candidates. However, after the election, more than 70 of those parties were deregistered for failing to meet legal requirements.
“We wish to reassure Nigerians that we will continue to act transparently and fairly to all associations, whether promoted by prominent or ordinary citizens,” he added. “We will continue to update the public on our actions every step of the way.”
Yakubu also announced that INEC is releasing the full list of the 110 applying associations, including their proposed names, acronyms, addresses, and the names of their pro tem chairmen and secretaries.
On other electoral matters, the INEC Chairman said the Commission is now ready to conduct outstanding bye-elections and resume the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).
“We met yesterday and are finalising the details. These will be made public within the next 24 hours,” he said. “As always, we count on your support.”
