The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has moved closer to approving new political parties as it begins the verification of eight associations that successfully completed documentation for registration.
The development marks a key phase in Nigeria’s expanding political landscape, coming amid rising calls for alternative platforms ahead of future elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 30, the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, said the decision followed a review of progress at the Commission’s meeting held on 30th October 2025.
Olumekun stated that “following the briefing held for 14 pre-qualified associations on Tuesday, 17th September 2025, the Commission opened its dedicated portal for the upload of required documents from Wednesday, 18th September to Friday, 18th October 2025 at midnight.”
He disclosed that “as of Saturday, 19th October 2025, eight (8) out of the fourteen (14) pre-qualified associations successfully completed the upload of all necessary information and documentation.”
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The associations that made the cut include the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA), Abundance Social Party (ASP), African Alliance Party (AAP), Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), Green Future Party (GFP), National Democratic Party (NDP), and Peoples Freedom Party (PFP).
Olumekun noted that the next phase will involve “detailed assessment and verification of the information and documents submitted by each association.”
He explained that the process would ensure compliance with “the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties (2022).”
Reaffirming INEC’s stance on fairness, Olumekun added that the Commission “wishes to reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and the deepening of Nigeria’s democratic culture.”
The outcome of the verification exercise will determine which of the eight associations will be formally recognised as political parties, potentially reshaping the country’s political field before the next electoral cycle.