The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved the registration of Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as Nigeria intensifies preparations for the 2027 General Election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, announced the decision in Abuja during the commission’s first consultative meeting with political parties for 2026.
Out of 171 associations that applied for registration, only DLA met all statutory requirements, while NDC’s registration follows a Federal High Court order. Certificates of registration will be handed over soon.
Amupitan urged parties to avoid internal conflicts and excessive litigation, focus on policy development, and mobilize voters ahead of the February 10 deadline for Permanent Voter Cards.
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He also warned against vote-buying, emphasizing strict enforcement of electoral laws.
INEC has finalized the 2027 election timetable and will begin a nationwide voter revalidation exercise to ensure a credible register, urging the National Assembly to fast-track electoral reforms.
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) praised INEC’s independence and neutrality, calling for adherence to party constitutions in leadership recognition, use of internal dispute-resolution mechanisms, and harmonization of the electoral legal framework.
IPAC also recommended same-day nationwide elections to reduce costs and voter fatigue, while pointing to upcoming local and governorship polls as a test of public confidence in INEC.