New parties seeking INEC registration hit 171

INEC logo

The number of associations seeking registration as political parties has risen to 171, following the submission of 19 additional letters of intent, the Independent National Electoral Commission confirmed on Thursday.

In a statement, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, said the updated list has been published on the commission’s website and other official platforms.

“Since our last update, 19 more letters of intent have been received, bringing the total to 171 as of September 3, 2025. Details of the latest submissions are available on our website,” Olumekun said.

He added that a review committee set up by the commission had completed its assessment of the applications and submitted recommendations for final consideration.

“As earlier announced, a shortlist of pre-qualified associations is being finalised for the next stage of the registration process,” he said.

The commission urged applicants to be patient and avoid practices that could delay their approval.

“We appeal to associations to remain patient as we conclude the process. Frequent changes to logos, acronyms, and addresses, or multiple applications by one association, only cause delays. In some cases, interim leaders have defected to other associations or existing parties, further slowing down the process,” Olumekun warned.

He, however, assured applicants of transparency and fairness. “We will treat all applications equitably and continue to update Nigerians on every step,” he said.

Under the Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022, INEC registers political parties that meet strict requirements, including having a national headquarters in Abuja, a distinct name and logo, evidence of nationwide membership, and a constitution and manifesto consistent with democratic principles. Punch