The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for the submission of political parties’ membership registers as part of ongoing preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna.

According to INEC, the decision followed concerns raised by political parties during a consultative meeting held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, over the earlier timeline for submission.

Initially, the commission had fixed April 1 to April 21, 2026, for the exercise. However, the timeline has now been adjusted to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.

INEC explained that the revision aligns with the 21-day requirement stipulated under Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, which mandates political parties to submit their membership registers ahead of their primaries.

“The commission agreed to adjust the period for the submission of the Political Parties’ Registers of Members to align the 21 days prescribed by law with the actual dates fixed by political parties,” the statement read.

The commission also approved a new window for party primaries, which will now take place between April 23 and May 30, 2026.

INEC emphasised that political parties are at liberty to fix their primary dates within the approved period but must ensure compliance with the revised submission deadline.

Consequently, the final deadline for the submission of membership registers has been extended to May 10, 2026, from the earlier date of April 21.

The electoral body stressed that strict adherence to the updated timetable is essential to ensuring a smooth and credible electoral process.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with political parties to deliver transparent and credible elections in 2027.