THE number of associations applying to become registered political parties in Nigeria has climbed to 171, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed.
The latest figure follows the submission of 19 new letters of intent, which have now been published on the commission’s website.
INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education, Sam Olumekun, explained that a review committee has already examined the applications and forwarded its recommendations for consideration.
Olumekun noted that a shortlist of associations that meet preliminary requirements is being finalised for the next stage of the registration process.
He cautioned applicants to avoid unnecessary changes to names, acronyms, or logos, as well as multiple submissions, which often slow down approvals.
He added that defections among interim leaders to other associations or existing political parties had also caused delays.
“INEC will ensure fairness and transparency in treating all applications and will continue to keep Nigerians updated at every step,” Olumekun assured.
Under the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022, aspiring parties must satisfy strict conditions, including maintaining a national headquarters in Abuja, providing evidence of nationwide membership, and submitting a constitution and manifesto aligned with democratic principles.
INEC also retains the power to deregister parties that fail to meet these standards.
In 2020, it deregistered 74 political parties for failing to secure seats in the 2019 elections or for non-compliance with legal requirements.
By the 2023 elections, only 18 political parties remained officially recognised.
The current list of applicants reflects a wide variety of political ambitions, with names such as the Key of Freedom Party, Absolute Congress, United People’s Victory Party, Obedient People’s Party, Progressive Obedient Party, National Youth Alliance, Guardian Party, Free Will Humanitarian Party, Save Nigeria People Party, and many others.
With the surge of fresh applications, INEC faces the challenge of balancing the enthusiasm for political participation with the constitutional demand for credible, nationwide representation.