INEC political party registration hits 171 associations, as commission finalises pre-qualified list and warns applicants against delays and double applications

INEC political party registration has surged, with the Independent National Electoral Commission confirming that 171 associations have now submitted letters of intent to become registered political parties in Nigeria.

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This update was disclosed on Thursday by Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, who noted that 19 new applications were received, raising the total from 152 to 171 as of September 3, 2025.

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

He added that a review committee had concluded its assessment of the applications and submitted recommendations for further evaluation.

INEC is now finalising a shortlist of pre-qualified associations for the next phase of the registration process.

The commission cautioned applicants to avoid administrative errors that may delay approval.

“Frequent changes to logos, acronyms, and addresses—or multiple applications by one group—only cause delays,” Olumekun warned.

“Some interim leaders have even defected to other associations or parties.”

Despite the influx of applications, Olumekun assured Nigerians of transparency and fairness throughout the process.

“We will treat all applications equitably and continue to update Nigerians at every step,” he added.

Under the Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022, all political associations must meet stringent requirements, including:

•  A national headquarters in Abuja
• A distinct name and logo
•  Evidence of nationwide membership
•  A constitution and manifesto aligned with democratic principles

INEC also retains the power to deregister political parties that fail to comply or perform. In 2020, 74 parties were deregistered after failing to win seats in the 2019 elections.

Only 18 parties contested the 2023 general elections.

The growing list of applicants reveals a spectrum of political ideologies, grassroots movements, and issue-based platforms. Some of the more striking names include:

• Key of Freedom Party,
• United People’s Victory Party,
• Obedient People’s Party,
• Polling Units Ambassadors of Nigeria,
• Pink Political Party,
• Far Right Party,
• Save Nigeria People Party,
• All for All Congress,
• Coalition for Nigerian Democrats,
• Abundance Africa Alliance,
• Reset Nigeria,
• Patriot Alliance Network

The full list of 171 associations is available on INEC’s official platforms.

As the 2027 general elections approach, the rise in political associations underscores growing civic engagement and public appetite for representation.

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INEC’s commitment to due process and rigorous screening will determine which of these groups evolve into Nigeria’s next generation of registered political parties.