Political party registration Nigeria in hits 122 as INEC confirms 12 new applications. Commission vows fair, transparent review in line with electoral regulations
Political party registration in Nigeria has reached a new milestone as the Independent National Electoral Commission confirmed the receipt of 12 additional applications, bringing the total number of aspiring political groups under review to 122.
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The commission made this announcement in a public statement issued on Thursday by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
INEC had earlier disclosed on 23rd June 2025 that it was processing 110 applications from associations seeking to become registered political parties.
With the latest update, that number has now increased.
The commission reiterated that the application process remains fair, transparent, and in full compliance with electoral laws.
“On Monday last week (23rd June 2025), the Commission announced that it had received applications from 110 associations seeking registration as political parties,” Olumekun said.
“We also assured Nigerians that we will be giving regular updates on the matter. The Commission is processing these applications transparently and in fairness to all applicants.”
He further noted that the commission received 12 new applications as of Wednesday, 2nd July 2025, making the current total 122.
The names, acronyms, addresses, and interim leadership of each applicant association have been published on INEC’s official website and other public channels.
Olumekun assured citizens that the review process will continue in accordance with the Electoral Act and the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties.
The Commission is expected to issue formal responses to applicants after thorough vetting of their documentation and organisational structure.
The registration process requires aspiring parties to meet specific criteria, including having a clear ideological focus, maintaining consistent leadership, and demonstrating the capacity to operate across the federation.
INEC’s transparency in providing regular updates is aimed at increasing public trust and ensuring openness in Nigeria’s evolving democratic space.
The commission also raised concerns about inconsistencies in the leadership structure of some applying associations.
According to INEC, one of the associations already replaced its interim Secretary after a defection to another group.
INEC warned that internal instability could delay the evaluation of such applications.
“To facilitate the consideration of these applications, the commission appeals to associations to maintain consistency of their proposed leadership and addresses so that they do not, by their own actions, cause a delay to the timely consideration of their applications,” the statement read.
Observers say the increasing number of applications highlights growing political interest ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, critics have also pointed out that Nigeria’s party system is already heavily saturated and fragmented, raising concerns about the viability and ideological depth of new entrants.
Nevertheless, INEC insists that it remains committed to following due process.
The commission encourages all applicant associations to comply strictly with procedural requirements and avoid internal disputes that may compromise their eligibility.
Under the current electoral framework, only associations that meet the detailed legal conditions will be approved as political parties.
These include national spread, proper documentation, a defined constitution, and financial transparency.
With the number of applicants continuing to grow, the political party registration in Nigeria stands at a critical juncture.
While some see it as a sign of political awakening and grassroots engagement, others urge caution, noting the risks of over-fragmentation in Nigeria’s democratic structure.
As INEC proceeds with the screening, the commission’s decisions in the coming months will shape the political landscape heading into 2027.
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For now, the public and stakeholders await the next set of approvals or disqualifications with keen interest.
