The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for the submission of candidates’ lists by political parties for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections.
The electoral body announced that the deadline, which was originally scheduled to expire on Saturday, July 11, 2026, has now been extended to midnight on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
INEC disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to the Commission, the extension followed an appeal by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) on behalf of political parties that were unable to complete the upload of the names and personal particulars of their candidates within the stipulated timeframe.
“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,” the statement said.
Haruna explained that the decision was taken to accommodate affected political parties while ensuring that the electoral process remains inclusive and in line with existing legal provisions.
He noted that the extension reflects the Commission’s commitment to fairness and broad participation in the electoral process, adding that INEC remains determined to provide all registered political parties with a reasonable opportunity to comply with submission requirements.
The Commission urged political parties yet to complete the process to make effective use of the additional time provided and ensure that all necessary information is uploaded before the new deadline.
“The extension underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity in its practices while acting within the ambit of the law,” Haruna stated.
The development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, including the nomination and submission of candidates for various elective positions across the country.
INEC warned that no further extension should be expected and advised parties to complete all submissions ahead of the revised deadline to avoid disqualification or administrative challenges.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a transparent, credible and inclusive electoral process in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act and its timetable for the 2027 General Election.
