INEC denied us access code for candidates’ nomination – NDC

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) denied the party access to the code required to upload candidates’ details to the commission’s nomination portal, a development it says significantly affected its participation in the electoral process.

The party’s leadership claimed that despite making efforts to obtain the necessary credentials for accessing the portal, it was unable to secure the code needed to complete the nomination process. According to the NDC, the inability to gain access prevented it from carrying out one of the critical requirements for political parties seeking to field candidates for elections.

The allegation comes amid ongoing concerns over electoral administration and the readiness of political parties ahead of future elections. Political parties in Nigeria are expected to comply with several administrative and legal requirements before candidates can be successfully nominated and recognised by the electoral commission. Access to the nomination portal is considered an essential part of this process, as it enables parties to submit candidates’ information and complete mandatory documentation within prescribed timelines.

The NDC maintained that it made several attempts to engage with electoral authorities over the issue but did not receive the required access code. Party officials argued that the development placed the party at a disadvantage and hampered its ability to fully participate in the democratic process.

The controversy emerged at a time when the party is also confronting legal and administrative challenges surrounding its status and future participation in electoral activities. The allegation has sparked discussions among political observers regarding the importance of transparent communication and equal treatment of all registered political parties in the electoral system.

Analysts have noted that access to nomination platforms and adherence to timelines are crucial components of electoral administration. They argue that any dispute relating to the nomination process has the potential to generate concerns among stakeholders and could raise questions about the inclusiveness of the democratic process.

The development has also drawn attention to the broader challenges facing emerging and smaller political parties in Nigeria. Many of these parties often contend with organisational, legal and administrative hurdles as they seek to establish themselves and compete effectively against larger and more established political platforms.

For the NDC, the alleged denial of access to the nomination portal represents more than an administrative issue. Party officials insist that the matter affected their ability to meet important electoral requirements and could have implications for their participation in future elections.

As preparations for the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum, stakeholders are expected to closely monitor developments surrounding candidate nomination procedures and the relationship between political parties and electoral authorities. The issue has once again highlighted the need for clear communication, transparency and confidence-building measures within Nigeria’s electoral process to ensure that all parties are provided with equal opportunities to participate in democratic contests.