2027: INEC Has Replaced Our Candidates With Strange Names — NDC Cries Out

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has raised concerns over the names of candidates published by the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party alleged that the electoral commission replaced the names of some of its candidates with unfamiliar names that were not submitted or approved by the party.

The NDC called on INEC to immediately investigate the alleged discrepancies and correct any errors before the electoral process advances further.

The party said the publication of incorrect candidates’ names could create confusion among voters and potentially undermine its participation in the election.

According to the NDC, it followed the required procedures for selecting and submitting its candidates for the various elective positions.

The party therefore expressed concern over the appearance of different names on the electoral commission’s published information.

The development has generated questions about the processes used by INEC to receive, verify and publish candidates submitted by political parties.

The NDC urged the commission to provide a clear explanation of how the alleged substitutions occurred and identify the steps being taken to correct the situation.

The party also appealed to its members and supporters to remain calm while efforts are made to resolve the matter through appropriate channels.

It warned that the presence of unfamiliar names could mislead voters, particularly in constituencies where party supporters are expecting specific candidates to appear on the ballot.

The NDC maintained that the integrity of candidate information is an important part of a credible electoral process.

Political parties are required to submit the names and details of candidates who emerge through their internal nomination processes to INEC within the stipulated timelines.

The electoral commission subsequently reviews the submissions and publishes candidate information in accordance with electoral laws and applicable regulations.

Any disagreement over published names can therefore have significant implications for affected parties and candidates, particularly as election preparations intensify.

The NDC called for transparency and accountability in resolving the alleged discrepancies, saying the matter should be addressed before the finalisation of election materials.

The party also urged INEC to ensure that only properly nominated candidates whose names were validly submitted by the party appear on the relevant electoral documents.

The allegation comes as political parties across Nigeria intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, with candidates, supporters and campaign structures becoming increasingly active.

The NDC said it remained committed to participating in the democratic process but would continue to demand clarification over any action that could affect its candidates.

The party expects INEC to respond to the allegations and provide appropriate corrections where errors are established.

It also urged its supporters to rely on official information and avoid spreading unverified claims while the issue is being addressed.

The controversy highlights the importance of accurate candidate records as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections.