INEC begins 2027 election process, opening primaries window for political parties from April 23 to May 30, 2026 with strict deadlines
The Independent National Electoral Commission has formally commenced preparations for the 2027 general elections by opening a 38-day window for political parties to conduct their primaries across Nigeria.
Also read:Â Iyabo Obasanjo Rejects APC Consensus Process Ahead of 2027 Elections
The commission announced that political parties now have from April 23 to May 30, 2026, to hold primaries for presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly candidates.
The development marks the official start of the 2027 election primaries timetable, setting the stage for internal party contests ahead of the general elections.
According to the electoral body, the window will also accommodate the resolution of disputes arising from party primaries, ensuring smoother candidate selection processes.
INEC further directed all registered political parties to submit their updated membership registers at least 21 days before conducting primaries, with a final submission deadline fixed for May 10, 2026.
Nigeria’s 18 registered political parties are expected to comply strictly with the schedule to avoid disqualification or legal complications during the nomination process.
The commission emphasised the importance of transparency and internal democracy, urging parties to conduct their primaries in a fair and inclusive manner.
Also read:Â Iyabo Obasanjo Rejects APC Consensus Process Ahead of 2027 Elections
INEC also stated that additional guidelines on monitoring and other electoral procedures will be released in the coming weeks as preparations intensify for the 2027 polls.
