The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has denied allegations that it replaced candidates nominated by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The denial follows allegations by the NDC that the electoral commission had removed some of its duly nominated candidates and replaced their names with individuals who, according to the party, did not emerge from its primaries or appeal process.
The controversy comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, with INEC already publishing candidate information and providing platforms for parties to submit and update their nominations. The commission’s official website currently provides access to candidate lists, including amended lists pursuant to court orders.
The NDC had raised concerns over what it described as the appearance of “strange names” among its candidates in some constituencies, particularly in Anambra State, alleging that at least 10 individuals listed by INEC were not candidates produced through the party’s nomination process.
The development has generated fresh concerns within the opposition party as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
However, INEC’s position effectively rejects the allegation that the commission independently substituted the party’s candidates, placing renewed attention on the nomination and submission process between political parties and the electoral body.
The dispute comes against the backdrop of wider disagreements within political parties over candidate selection, substitutions and the uploading of nomination lists ahead of the 2027 polls. Similar disputes have already emerged among several parties as they race to meet electoral deadlines.
The 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for 16 January, while governorship and state House of Assembly elections are slated for 6 February.
With political parties expected to finalise their candidate lists in line with electoral requirements, disputes over nominations and substitutions are likely to remain a significant issue in the run-up to the elections.
