Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally kicked off preparations for the 2027 general elections, announcing a 38-day window for political parties to conduct their primaries.
The commission said parties have from April 23 to May 30, 2026, to organise primaries for all elective positions, including presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly seats.
Within this period, parties are also expected to resolve any disputes that may arise from their internal selection processes.
INEC guidelines require political parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before conducting primaries, setting May 10, 2026, as the final deadline for submissions.
The development signals the official start of the 2027 election cycle, with Nigeria’s 18 registered political parties now under pressure to meet strict timelines.
INEC has urged stakeholders to ensure transparency, inclusiveness, and adherence to internal democratic principles throughout the process.
