Janet Samuel
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received 110 letters of intent from associations seeking registration as political parties.
INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu made the disclosure during the Commission’s consultative meeting with media executives on Wednesday in Abuja.
Yakubu said the list containing the proposed names, acronyms, addresses, and details of protem officers will be published online and included in briefing folders distributed at the meeting.
He emphasized that the Commission will remain guided by law and will treat all requests fairly, regardless of the promoters’ status.
Responding to claims that INEC was stalling the process, the Chairman described the allegations as baseless and politically motivated, recalling similar accusations in 2013.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s independence, stating, “We will continue to act with fairness and in line with the law.”
On other electoral matters, Yakubu revealed that the Commission is ready to resume the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) and conduct outstanding bye-elections nationwide.
Final details, he said, would be made public within 24 hours following a meeting held on Tuesday.
He reminded journalists of the ongoing primaries for the FCT Area Council elections ending June 30 and urged media houses to apply early for accreditation ahead of the Anambra Governorship Election holding on November 8, 2025.
Speaking at the meeting, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahaya, expressed appreciation for the Commission’s efforts in ensuring journalists’ safety during elections and called for the same level of commitment ahead of upcoming polls, including those in Anambra State.
“The media plays a vital role in promoting free, fair, and credible elections. Our responsibility goes beyond reporting events. The media shapes public discourse, fosters transparency, and strengthens democratic participation,” Yahaya said.
He also urged INEC to improve communication channels and give timely access to credible information, especially during election periods.
“When journalists have the right information at the right time, will help reduce tension and limit the spread of fake news,” he added.
