The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for political parties to submit their membership registers ahead of the 2027 general elections.

INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the change follows concerns from political parties about the original timeline, which ran from April 1 to April 21, 2026.

The commission explained that the new deadline aligns with the 21-day requirement in Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026. Political parties must now submit their membership registers by May 10, 2026.

INEC also announced that parties can hold their primaries between April 23 and May 30, 2026, but stressed that strict adherence to the revised schedule is crucial for a smooth election process.

The commission reiterated its commitment to working with political parties to ensure transparent and credible elections in 2027.