The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved 66 petitions challenging the final lists of candidates for the 2027 governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections in Nigeria. This decision was made after reviewing complaints received from political parties following the publication of the final lists on October 10, 2026. INEC received a total of 130 petitions from various political parties across different states.
According to INEC, 69 petitions were received from 12 political parties across 26 states concerning the governorship election. Out of these, 41 petitions were successful, while 28 were rejected. For the State Houses of Assembly elections, the commission received 61 petitions from 11 political parties across 11 states, with 25 successful and 36 rejected.
The complaints covered various issues, including the omission of political parties from the final lists, the inclusion of candidates whose names were absent from their parties' membership registers, and allegations of multiple nominations. INEC found merit in some complaints and approved the inclusion of affected candidates and political parties.
INEC rejected petitions that failed to meet the required criteria and removed names that had been wrongly published after confirming that the affected individuals were not listed in their parties' membership registers. Some candidates were also removed after their nominations were found to be inconsistent with applicable legal requirements.
The commission explained that decisions concerning State Assembly candidates sponsored by political parties were based on specific complaints and determined in line with the law and its established criteria. INEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and the credibility of the electoral process.
The names of affected candidates, political parties, and states will be reflected in an updated list on INEC's website. This move aims to ensure that the electoral process is fair, transparent, and free from irregularities. INEC's actions demonstrate its dedication to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
INEC's decision to approve 66 petitions and reject others highlights its commitment to ensuring that only eligible candidates participate in the 2027 governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections. The commission's actions will help to build trust in the electoral process and ensure that the rights of all stakeholders are protected.
Key points
- INEC approves 66 petitions challenging 2027 governorship and State Houses of Assembly candidates.
- The commission received 130 petitions from various political parties across different states.
- Updated candidate lists will be published on INEC's website, reflecting the changes made.
