The Independent National Electoral Commission has confirmed it received an additional 12 applications from associations seeking registration as political parties, bringing the total number of pending applications to 122.
The update was contained in a statement released on Thursday, July 3, by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun.
Olumekun explained that the latest applications came after the Commission’s earlier announcement on June 23, when 110 applications were officially acknowledged.
“As of Wednesday, July 2, 2025, the Commission has received 12 more applications for registration as political parties, increasing the total number under consideration to 122,” the statement read.
He reiterated INEC’s commitment to ensuring a transparent and fair evaluation process in line with the Electoral Act and its internal guidelines.
“We have uploaded the details of all new applicants—including their names, acronyms, contact addresses, interim Chairmen and Secretaries—on our website and other public platforms for transparency and public scrutiny,” he added.
Olumekun also disclosed that the Commission had observed leadership changes among some of the applying associations, warning that such inconsistencies could hinder the registration process.
“The Commission notes that one association has already replaced its interim Secretary following defection to another group. We urge all applicant associations to maintain consistency in leadership and contact details to avoid delays in processing,” he said.
He assured Nigerians that the Commission would continue to provide periodic updates on the registration process and would act in accordance with established laws and procedures.
INEC’s announcement comes amid increasing political mobilization ahead of the 2027 general elections, with more groups seeking recognition and inclusion in Nigeria’s political landscape.
