The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disclosed a fresh rise in the number of associations aspiring to become registered political parties, revealing that it has now received a total of 171 letters of intent as of September 3, 2025.
This development follows the submission of 19 new applications, according to a statement released on Thursday by Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chair of its Information and Voter Education Committee.
The updated figures and list of interested groups have been made available on the electoral body’s official platforms.
“Since our last update, 19 more associations have indicated their interest in becoming political parties, bringing the total to 171,” Olumekun stated. “Full details are accessible on our website.”
He further explained that a dedicated internal panel had concluded the preliminary evaluation of the applications and submitted its findings for review. “We are in the final stages of preparing a shortlist of groups that meet the preliminary requirements for the next phase of the registration process,” he noted.
INEC urged aspiring political associations to refrain from actions that could impede the process. “Frequent amendments to names, logos, or addresses, as well as submitting multiple applications under different aliases, only complicate and delay assessments,” Olumekun cautioned.
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He also pointed out that in some cases, interim leaders of applying groups had already defected to other associations or political parties, causing further setbacks.
Nonetheless, INEC reiterated its commitment to a fair and open process. “Every application will be treated without bias, and we remain dedicated to keeping Nigerians informed at every stage,” Olumekun assured.
As stipulated by Nigeria’s Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022, any group seeking recognition as a political party must fulfill several conditions. These include establishing a national secretariat in Abuja, choosing a unique name and logo, demonstrating a spread of membership across the country, and submitting a constitution and manifesto that reflect democratic values.
