The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disowned a fake online publication claiming to be a special announcement on governorship candidates in six states. The affected states are Zamfara, Gombe, Delta, Plateau, Yobe, and Kano. INEC urged members of the public to disregard the publication and rely on its verified communication channels for electoral information. The commission described the publication as fraudulent and not originating from INEC.
INEC's warning comes amid concerns over the omission of several candidates from its final list of governorship candidates for the 2027 elections. The commission released its final list of candidates on Saturday, with notable omissions in Ogun and Gombe states. The list, signed by the commission's Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, and published on its website, contained 13 candidates in Ogun State and 16 in Gombe State, with no PDP candidate listed in either state.
The omission of PDP candidates in Ogun and Gombe states has sparked reactions from the party. The PDP's National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, disclosed that the party was working towards an amicable resolution in line with the law and established electoral guidelines. The party urged those affected to remain calm and exercise patience while discussions with the commission continued.
The Kwankwassiyya Movement has also vowed to engage INEC over the omission of its candidates, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso and Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, from the final list in Kano State. The movement's spokesperson, Habibu Mohammed, said the omissions came as a shock, insisting that the candidates had met the requirements for registration. The movement will explore the legal provisions available to candidates whose names were omitted from the commission's list.
According to electoral provisions, affected candidates have 14 days to seek redress over omissions from the list. The Kwankwassiyya Movement and the PDP are exploring available legal procedures to address the omissions. The NDC has also described the omission as an error and said it is seeking a correction.
The PDP has warned against actions or statements that could undermine the ongoing engagements with INEC, stressing its commitment to addressing the concerns through lawful means. The party assured affected candidates, members, and supporters that it was treating the matter seriously and would communicate further developments when necessary.
INEC has urged the public to be cautious of fake publications and rely on its verified communication channels for electoral information. The commission's warning is a reminder of the importance of verifying information, especially in the sensitive area of electoral processes. The 2027 elections are expected to be a major event in Nigeria's democratic calendar.
Key points
- INEC disowned a fake online publication listing governorship candidates in six states.
- The commission's final list of candidates for the 2027 elections omitted several candidates, sparking reactions from affected parties.
- Affected parties, including the PDP and Kwankwassiyya Movement, are exploring legal provisions to address the omissions.
