INEC Shortlists 14 Associations for Political Party Registration

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has shortlisted 14 associations out of 171 applicants seeking registration as political parties.

The announcement was contained in a statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun.

Olumekun explained that the decision followed the Commission’s meeting on Thursday, September 11, 2025, where it reviewed preparations for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections, the end-of-tenure Area Council election in the Federal Capital Territory, as well as reports on fresh applications for political party registration.

According to the Commission, the 14 associations scaled the first hurdle by meeting the initial requirements outlined in Section 222 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Section 79 of the Electoral Act 2022, and INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties 2022.

The remaining 157 applications were rejected for failing to meet the threshold, with INEC confirming that the affected groups would be formally notified within 24 hours.

The names of the pre-qualified associations have been published on INEC’s website and other official platforms. Their interim chairmen and secretaries are expected to attend a briefing at INEC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

INEC further stated that it will conduct physical verification of all claims made by the shortlisted groups before taking a final decision on their registration.

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Rafiyat SADIQ

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Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.