The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for political parties to submit the names and personal particulars of their candidates for the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections.
The commission announced the extension on Sunday. It said the decision followed an appeal by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) on behalf of political parties.
Parties get more time
In a statement, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said political parties now have until midnight on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, to complete the submission process.
The earlier deadline expired on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission has approved the extension of the deadline for submission of lists of candidates for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly Elections by political parties.”
He added:
“The deadline for submission in the Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election being Saturday 11th July 2026 has been extended to midnight on Tuesday 14th July, 2026.”
INEC explains extension
According to the commission, IPAC requested more time after some political parties failed to complete the upload of their candidates’ details before the original deadline.
INEC said the extension reflects its commitment to an inclusive electoral process. It also stressed that the decision complies with the Electoral Act.
“The extension underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity in its practices, while acting within the ambit of the law.”
Commission urges parties to act
INEC urged political parties to use the additional three-day window to complete the upload of their candidates’ names and personal particulars.
“The commission enjoins political parties to take advantage of this window of opportunity and ensure that all necessary details are uploaded before the expiration of the new deadline.”
Meanwhile, several political parties reportedly experienced technical and logistical challenges while using INEC’s online nomination portal. Those challenges affected their ability to meet the original deadline.
What happens next?
Political parties now have until midnight on July 14 to complete the submission process. After the deadline expires, INEC will begin processing the nominations in line with its timetable for the 2027 general election.
