What INEC’s 2027 candidates’ list means for Nigeria’s democracy

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released lists of candidates for the 2027 elections in Nigeria, but several prominent candidates are missing from their respective state lists. This development has raised questions regarding electoral transparency, party discipline, legal compliance, and public confidence in Nigeria's democratic process.

The omissions are not isolated incidents but extend to prominent figures such as Isa Ali Pantami in Gombe, Ladi Adebutu in Ogun, and Aminu Gwarzo in Kano. Additionally, in Bauchi, four parties have absent candidates for the governorship position.

Media reports and legal challenges have highlighted discrepancies in the nomination process, with each case requiring independent examination rather than political interpretation. The Supreme Court's judgment on September 24 reinstated provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, emphasizing the importance of party membership registers and primary participation in compliance with statutory requirements.

In Pantami's case, his omission follows an earlier court challenge, while Adebutu's eligibility has been questioned due to his inclusion in the party membership register submitted to INEC.

These omissions have several implications: electoral competition, internal party democracy, and information problems. The lack of candidates can affect the competition balance, particularly in close contests like those in Kano, Gombe, Taraba, Kwara, Ogun, and Nasarawa. It could also benefit rival parties, though this does not imply any party intentionally manipulated the process.

The issue of internal party democracy focuses on parties' responsibilities for accurate membership records, lawful primaries, and timely submissions. In such cases, INEC cannot be automatically blamed if these requirements are not met.

Lastly, the omissions create information problems, potentially deepening distrust and encouraging allegations of political manipulation. Credible media organizations must distinguish between documented facts, parties' allegations, official explanations, and judicial findings. They should establish what was submitted, when, and if there is any legal or administrative basis for the omission.

INEC should clarify the procedural basis for disputed omissions and make relevant information accessible, while parties should communicate clearly with their supporters, avoiding speculation and political exploitation. Ultimately, the credibility of the 2027 elections hinges not only on publishing a final list but also on ensuring every inclusion or exclusion is legally defensible, transparently explained, and open to appropriate scrutiny.