The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced June 26, 2026, as the date for issuing access codes that will enable political parties to begin uploading candidates’ details for the 2027 general elections through its Candidate Nomination Portal.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja during the commission’s quarterly meeting with leaders of registered political parties.
According to him, the move follows the conclusion of party primaries on May 30, 2026. He explained that the access codes would be issued to authorised national officers of political parties, who will be responsible for uploading the names, personal details and other required information of nominated candidates.
Amupitan urged political parties to take the exercise seriously and ensure that their ICT personnel and relevant officials are fully prepared ahead of the process, warning that deadlines would be strictly enforced.
“On Friday, June 26, 2026, the commission will issue official access codes to all political parties for the purpose of accessing the Candidate Nomination Portal,” he said.
“These access codes will enable designated national officers of political parties to upload the names, personal particulars and other required information relating to nominated candidates. The portal is fully automated and will close automatically at the expiration of the prescribed period.”
The INEC chairman also expressed concern over unresolved court cases involving internal party leadership disputes, describing them as avoidable distractions that could hinder electoral preparations. He urged political stakeholders to resolve such issues promptly to ensure the electoral timetable remains on course.
Reaffirming the commission’s independence, Amupitan assured stakeholders that INEC would continue to carry out its responsibilities impartially and in accordance with constitutional provisions.
He further called on political parties to intensify voter education campaigns and encourage citizens to participate in the Continuous Voter Registration exercise in order to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the elections.
“The success of the 2027 general election will depend not only on the preparedness of the commission but also on the commitment of political parties to uphold democratic principles, respect the rule of law, conduct transparent primaries, discourage violence, hate speech and vote-buying, and promote issue-based campaigns,” he said.
Amupitan added that INEC would continue to ensure equal treatment for all political parties while adhering strictly to the Constitution, the Electoral Act and relevant electoral guidelines.
He noted that despite pending appeals against two Federal High Court judgments affecting aspects of the commission’s timetable, preparations for the 2027 general elections would continue in line with lawful court directives.