Electoral Commission Says Party Nominations Are Not Its Responsibility
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected allegations by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) that it removed the party’s nominated candidates from some State House of Assembly constituencies in Anambra and Benue states and replaced them with unauthorised names.
INEC described the allegations as unfounded and said political parties are responsible for the nomination of their candidates.
NDC Accuses INEC Of Replacing Candidates
The NDC had accused INEC of publishing names of individuals it said were not authorised by the party to contest the affected constituencies.
The party called for an investigation into the alleged changes and raised concerns over the potential impact on its candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
INEC Denies Altering Party List
Responding to the allegations, INEC said it does not have the power to independently nominate candidates for political parties.
The commission maintained that candidate nomination is the responsibility of political parties and rejected the accusation that it substituted the NDC’s candidates with unauthorised names.
The dispute has added another layer to the political preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the NDC demanding clarification while INEC maintains that the allegations are unfounded.
What We Know
- NDC accused INEC of replacing some of its nominated candidates.
- The allegations concern State House of Assembly constituencies in Anambra and Benue.
- INEC has rejected the allegations.
- INEC says candidate nomination is the responsibility of political parties.
What Remains Unclear
- The underlying dispute over the affected candidate lists may require further clarification between the NDC and INEC.
- Any legal action or formal investigation arising from the disagreement remains a matter to watch.