The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally notified Resident Electoral Commissioners across the country of the commencement of political party primaries ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
In a circular dated May 11, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Dr. Rose Oriaran-Anthony, the electoral body said the primaries would cover the nomination of candidates for the Presidential, Governorship, Senatorial, House of Representatives and State Houses of Assembly elections.
The notice, addressed to Resident Electoral Commissioners in all states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stated that the exercise would hold within the period approved by the Commission.
INEC directed its officials nationwide to make necessary arrangements for the monitoring of the primaries in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), as well as the Commission’s regulations and guidelines.
The Commission also disclosed that political parties had submitted their timetable and schedule of activities, adding that the timetable could be updated from time to time when necessary.
The development signals the formal kickoff of activities leading to the 2027 general elections, as political parties are expected to begin internal consultations and preparations for the nomination of candidates.
