The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed allegations made by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) concerning the unauthorized removal and replacement of candidate nominations for the 2027 general election. This response came after NDC officials claimed that their nominated candidates were substituted with others not chosen by the party.
Adedayo Oketola, the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, emphasized that the commission does not have the authority to select candidates for political parties, a responsibility that lies solely with the parties themselves. To investigate the claims, INEC plans to review its electronic and documentary records related to the constituencies pointed out by the NDC, particularly in Anambra State.
Oketola stated that the serious nature of the allegations requires thorough examination, asserting that INEC’s electronic audit trails could clarify how the disputed names surfaced on the nomination platform. He reiterated, “For the avoidance of doubt, INEC does not nominate candidates for political parties. The nomination of candidates is the responsibility of political parties…”
According to Oketola, the candidate nomination portal was designed specifically for political parties to submit candidate details using credentials issued by INEC. Each transaction on the portal is electronically documented, allowing for the tracing of all activities, including the submission of candidates’ names.
He urged the NDC to present any evidence that may substantiate their claims of interference by INEC officials. Oketola clarified that any allegations involving unauthorized assistance to candidates would also be investigated based on INEC’s electronic records.
Moreover, Oketola explained that while INEC monitors party primaries, this does not imply that the commission has any power to decide the outcome or nominate candidates for those parties. He emphasized that disputes regarding primary elections should be resolved following the guidelines stipulated in the Electoral Act 2026.
Oketola further asserted that INEC has no vested interest in the candidate selections made by political parties, maintaining that its role is to facilitate the electoral process fairly and impartially according to the law. He pointed out that political parties carry the responsibility for complying with legal procedures during their nomination processes.
In conclusion, Oketola reiterated INEC’s commitment to addressing legitimate concerns related to the nomination process based on verifiable records rather than unsubstantiated claims, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal frameworks during the electoral administration.
