Opposition parties have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to move the deadline for party primaries in the 2027 general election to the end of July 2026.

The appeal was contained in a communiqué issued after a national summit of opposition parties held in Ibadan on Saturday.

Among those represented at the meeting were the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Leaders at the summit criticised INEC’s current timetable, arguing that it places opposition parties at a disadvantage.

“The guidelines recently issued by INEC pose significant constraints and appear structured in a way that limits the ability of opposition parties to effectively prepare,” the communiqué stated.

The electoral body had fixed May 30, 2026, as the deadline for party primaries, but the parties insist more time is needed to ensure fair participation.

They maintained that extending the timeline would promote inclusiveness and strengthen the credibility of the 2027 elections, which they described as crucial to the country’s democratic stability.

The opposition also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to weaken Nigeria’s multiparty system.

“We will resist any effort to impose a one-party structure and remain committed to preserving plural democracy in Nigeria,” the communiqué read.

In addition, the parties dismissed what they described as moves to position President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as an uncontested presidential candidate in 2027, stressing their readiness to present candidates and challenge for power at the polls.

They further questioned the neutrality of INEC Chairman Joash Ojo Amupitan, alleging bias in favour of the ruling party and calling for his exclusion from the conduct of the 2027 elections.

According to the communiqué, his continued oversight could erode public trust and heighten political tensions.

The parties also urged the National Assembly of Nigeria to revisit the Electoral Act 2026, warning that some provisions could undermine the integrity of the electoral process and conflict with constitutional standards.

They concluded by demanding the immediate release of politicians allegedly detained or harassed over what they described as minor, bailable offences. (The Guardian)

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