By Joy Onu, Abuja
In a decisive step to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday unveiled a thoroughly updated set of regulations and guidelines for political parties, setting the stage for more transparent and accountable elections in 2027.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, Chairman of INEC, during a consultative meeting with leaders of political parties at the Commission’s conference room in Abuja. The meeting brought together party chairmen, national commissioners, senior INEC officials, and members of the press to examine the newly drafted 2026 regulations.
Speaking at the meeting, Professor Amupitan described the revisions as a “surgical realignment” of previous rules, designed to align party operations with the newly enacted Electoral Act of 2026. He emphasised that credible elections begin long before polling day, starting with transparent candidate selection processes and accountable party operations.
The updated regulations aim to modernize party processes, covering everything from registration and mergers to internal governance, primary elections, campaign rallies, and financial accountability. Notably, the guidelines include measurable standards to ensure meaningful participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, a move analysts say could reshape the country’s political landscape.
Professor Amupitan stressed that the reforms are safeguards meant to protect the will of Nigerian voters and prevent opaque practices that fuel litigation and voter apathy. He also highlighted that election-related expenses for primaries and general elections would now be determined in consultation with political parties.
With presidential and National Assembly elections slated for January 16, 2027, and governorship and state assembly polls on February 6, the Commission emphasized that these reforms are essential to navigate a compressed electoral timetable and maintain the integrity of the process.
“Let us approach these regulations as tools to level the playing field, enhance fairness, and uphold democratic values,” the INEC Chairman said, urging political leaders to engage constructively during the consultation.
The Commission hopes that the revised regulations will promote transparency, reduce litigation arising from opaque processes, and foster a more equitable political environment for all stakeholders.
