Opposition political parties in Nigeria moved quickly over the weekend to submit updated membership registers to the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of the deadline for the 2027 general elections.
The rush followed INEC’s earlier extension of the submission deadline to May 10, 2026, giving parties additional time to comply with electoral requirements before the conduct of party primaries.
Under the Electoral Act, political parties are expected to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before holding primary elections. INEC had already fixed May 30 as the final date for party primaries ahead of the 2027 polls.
The development created pressure on many opposition parties, especially amid ongoing coalition talks and concerns that some aspirants could be disqualified if their parties failed to meet the requirements.
NNPP, SDP Confirm Compliance
The New Nigeria People’s Party confirmed that it had already submitted its membership register to INEC in multiple volumes.
NNPP National Chairman, Yusuf Bala, stated that the party exceeded the minimum membership requirement set by the commission and maintained strong support across Nigeria.
The Social Democratic Party also confirmed compliance with the directive.
SDP spokesperson Rufus Aiyenigba explained that the party had completed the process long before INEC officials visited the party headquarters for verification.
SDP National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, also affirmed that the party met the deadline without issues.
Labour Party Reports Rising Membership in Northern Nigeria
The Labour Party disclosed that it has witnessed a significant rise in membership registration in northern Nigeria.
According to LP spokesperson Ken Asogwa, internal records showed that northern states recorded higher membership figures than several southern states.
He noted that states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Benue and parts of the North-East showed strong interest in the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Asogwa also praised the current acting leadership of the party for expanding the Labour Party’s influence across the northern region.
NDC, APGA and YPP Submit Registers
The Nigeria Democratic Congress expressed confidence that it would fully comply with the INEC membership register deadline before the expiration date.
Other parties, including the All Progressives Grand Alliance and the Young Progressives Party, also confirmed that they submitted their updated membership records.
African Action Congress publisher and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore equally confirmed compliance on behalf of his party.
Why the INEC Membership Register Deadline Matters
INEC explained that submission of membership registers is necessary for monitoring political parties and ensuring that candidates emerge through transparent democratic processes.
The electoral commission stated that the directive aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, which requires parties to provide authentic membership records before conducting primaries.
The process also allows INEC to monitor congresses and party activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political observers believe the deadline has intensified political activities nationwide, with parties organising emergency meetings, membership drives and coalition discussions to strengthen their chances before the next general election.
With the INEC membership register deadline now closed, attention will shift to party primaries and coalition negotiations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The coming months are expected to shape Nigeria’s political landscape as opposition parties continue efforts to build stronger alliances against the ruling party.
