INEC Screens 171 Applications for Political Parties, Shortlists 14

INEC Screens 171 Applications for Political Parties, Shortlists 14

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it received a total of 171 applications from groups and associations seeking registration as political parties in Nigeria.

According to the commission, after the first phase of screening, only 14 associations scaled through the initial requirements and have now been shortlisted for further consideration.

INEC explained that the shortlisted groups will be subjected to a more rigorous evaluation process, which includes verification of their offices, constitutions, membership registers, and financial structures, to ensure they meet all the criteria set out by the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act.

If successful, the new parties will join Nigeria’s existing political platforms, potentially reshaping the country’s political landscape ahead of upcoming elections.

INEC also reassured Nigerians of its commitment to strengthening democracy by ensuring that only credible and viable associations are recognized as political parties.