Just in: INEC Receives 12 New Party Applications, Total Now 122

DDM News

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that it has received twelve new applications from groups seeking official registration as political parties in Nigeria, bringing the total number of applications under active review to 122.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the disclosure was made through an official statement released on Thursday, July 3, 2025, by Mr. Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee.

The announcement marks a steady increase in political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with various political interest groups jostling for recognition and relevance in Nigeria’s expanding democratic space.

According to INEC, the original number of applications stood at 110 as of June 23, 2025. However, with the receipt of 12 additional submissions by Wednesday, July 2, the number has now risen to 122.

Olumekun emphasized that the Commission is committed to ensuring fairness and transparency in handling the applications. He assured Nigerians that each submission will be reviewed in accordance with provisions of the Electoral Act and the Nigerian Constitution.

“The Commission is processing these applications transparently and in fairness to all applicants,” the statement said.

The list of new applicants, their proposed acronyms, contact addresses, and details of their interim leadership, such as Chairmen and Secretaries, has been made publicly available through INEC’s official website and other public platforms.

This move, INEC noted, is to enhance public awareness and ensure openness in the party registration process.

However, INEC also expressed concerns over the internal inconsistencies in some of the applications received.

One particular case involved an association that changed its interim Secretary after the individual defected to another group, prompting the Commission to raise an alarm over possible procedural delays.

Olumekun advised all applicant groups to maintain consistency in their submitted leadership and contact details, warning that discrepancies or changes could impede the Commission’s ability to verify their claims and conduct necessary assessments.

“To facilitate the consideration of these applications, the Commission appeals to associations to maintain consistency in their proposed leadership and addresses,” Olumekun added.

INEC is empowered by law to register political parties based on specific constitutional guidelines, including requirements for national spread, organizational structure, and fulfillment of administrative protocols.

The registration of new parties is expected to shape the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 general elections, as more Nigerians seek alternative platforms to express their political aspirations.

Analysts believe the influx of applications signals increasing dissatisfaction with the existing political structure dominated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The rise of the Labour Party and other minor parties in the 2023 elections has further fueled interest among grassroots organizations and advocacy groups to enter the political space.

With 18 officially registered parties currently recognized by INEC, the potential approval of more associations could significantly alter the dynamics of political engagement in Nigeria.

Observers are watching closely to see how many of the 122 applicants will meet the stringent requirements necessary for full political party recognition.

INEC has promised to continue providing regular updates on the progress of the application reviews and to ensure that no applicant is unfairly treated or denied due process.

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