INEC Extends Deadline For Submission Of Candidates For 2027 Elections

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, following appeals from political parties.

The electoral umpire announced on Sunday that the deadline, which was initially scheduled to expire on Saturday, July 11, 2026, has now been shifted to midnight on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

According to a statement signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the extension was granted after the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), acting on behalf of political parties, requested more time to complete the upload of candidates' details.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved the extension of the deadline for submission of lists of candidates for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly Elections, by political parties. 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,” the statement read.

INEC explained that the decision followed appeals from political parties that were unable to upload the names and personal particulars of their candidates within the stipulated timeframe.

“The decision to extend was based on appeal by the Inter-Party Advisory Council, on behalf of political parties who were unable to upload the names and personal particulars of their candidates within the scheduled timeline,” Haruna stated.

The commission said the extension reflects its commitment to ensuring an inclusive electoral process while remaining within the provisions of the law.

It urged all political parties to make use of the additional time to complete the submission process, stressing that no further delays should be expected after the new deadline expires.

“The extension underscores the Commission's commitment to ensuring inclusivity in its practices, while acting within the ambit of the law.

“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,” the statement added.