Political Parties Clash Over INEC Nomination Deadline As Election Preparations Intensify

Political Parties Clash Over INEC Nomination Deadline as Election Preparations Intensify Political parties have issued conflicting statements over their compliance with the Independent National Electoral Commission’s INEC timetable for the submission of candidates ahead of next year’s general election, following the expiration of the nomination deadline. The deadline has triggered disagreements among parties, with some seeking additional time to complete their processes while others insisted they had met the electoral commission’s requirements within the stipulated period.

Several parties reportedly approached INEC for an extension, citing challenges linked to internal nomination procedures, ongoing legal disputes and other administrative issues affecting the finalisation of their candidate lists. The disagreements have also been accompanied by court cases involving candidate selection and nomination disputes, as some aspirants challenge the processes through which parties selected their representatives. Some political parties denied reports suggesting they failed to meet INEC’s deadline, maintaining that they successfully submitted the required documents and complied with the commission’s guidelines. Party officials said claims of non-compliance were inaccurate and could create unnecessary confusion ahead of the elections. INEC’s timetable requires political parties to complete their nomination processes and submit candidates within the approved period to allow the commission to proceed with verification, publication of candidate lists and other preparations for the polls. Electoral experts have warned that prolonged disputes over nominations could affect the credibility and smooth conduct of the election process, particularly if unresolved cases reach the courts close to election day. The development comes as political parties continue preparations for the general election, with candidate selection remaining one of the most closely watched stages of the electoral cycle. Parties are expected to resolve outstanding legal and administrative issues as INEC moves forward with its election timetable.