INEC shortlists 14 associations for political party registration

This was announced in a statement by National Commissioner
and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun.

Olumekun said the decision followed the Commission’s meeting
on Thursday, September 11, 2025, during which it reviewed preparations for
upcoming off-cycle governorship elections, the end-of-tenure Area Council
election in the Federal Capital Territory, and considered reports on fresh
applications for party registration.

According to INEC, the 14 associations met the initial
requirements outlined in Section 222 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended),
Section 79 of the Electoral Act 2022, and the Commission’s Regulations and
Guidelines for Political Parties 2022.

The remaining 157 applications were rejected for failing to
meet the threshold. INEC said the affected associations will be formally
notified within 24 hours.

The names of the pre-qualified associations have been
published on INEC’s website and other official platforms. Their interim
chairmen and secretaries are expected to attend a briefing at INEC Headquarters
in Abuja on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

INEC added that it will carry out physical verification of
all claims made by the shortlisted groups before taking a final decision on
their registration status.