Political parties in Nigeria have raised alarms over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) draft 2026 regulations for political parties, warning that certain provisions could compromise the credibility of the 2027 general elections. Party leaders, gathered under the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), called on the commission and the National Assembly to revisit rules they described as impractical, exclusionary, and potentially detrimental to democratic participation.

Speaking during a consultative meeting in Abuja, IPAC National Chairman, Dr Yusuf Dantalle, criticised mandatory direct primaries and strict deadlines for submitting membership registers, including National Identification Numbers. He argued that these requirements placed undue pressure on political parties, particularly those outside government influence. “Critical issues, if not urgently addressed, could jeopardise the success of the 2027 General Election,” Dantalle said, describing the 2026 Electoral Act as a setback to Nigeria’s democratic journey rather than an advancement.

He urged the restoration of indirect primaries as a legitimate option, emphasising that candidate selection should remain an internal party matter. Dantalle also highlighted the need for stronger safeguards against electoral malpractice, including the establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission and mandatory electronic transmission of results to avoid past lapses. “The credibility of the commission is at stake, and public confidence hinges on the assurance that every vote will count,” he added.

Confirming the meeting, INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan stressed that credible elections begin long before polling day. He explained that the revised guidelines followed a comprehensive review of the 2022 regulations, informed by empirical findings including the Political Party Performance Index supported by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy. The review revealed a “disturbing gap between party constitutions and grassroots realities,” prompting reforms across registration, mergers, primaries, campaign activities, and financial transparency.

Amupitan noted that the 2026 regulations also incorporate measurable benchmarks to enhance participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities. He encouraged political parties to view the rules as safeguards rather than restrictions. “By sharpening these rules, we are protecting the sovereign will of the Nigerian people from nomination to the final declaration of results,” he said, reaffirming INEC’s neutrality in the process.

With the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 16, followed by governorship and state assembly polls on February 6, Amupitan warned that the commission is operating within a compressed timeline that demands “surgical precision.” He urged stakeholders to pay particular attention to campaign finance clauses, noting the commission’s authority to determine election expenses in consultation with political parties.

Akahi News gathered that the meeting reflects ongoing tension between INEC’s reform agenda and political parties’ concerns over operational feasibility and inclusivity. Analysts believe the dialogue is crucial for building public trust ahead of the upcoming elections.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Akahi News www.akahinews.org