2027: INEC Probes Source Of ‘Strange’ Names In NDC List

The Independent National Electoral Commission has commenced an investigation into how names allegedly unknown to the Nigeria Democratic Congress appeared on the party’s candidate list for the 2027 general elections.

The development followed complaints by the NDC that candidates it did not nominate or authorise were published as its candidates in several State House of Assembly constituencies, particularly in Anambra State.

The party had alleged that several names were substituted for its authentic candidates and called on the electoral commission to investigate how the disputed names found their way into its published list.

INEC, however, denied replacing candidates nominated by the party, stressing that the commission does not have the legal authority to nominate candidates for political parties.

The commission explained that political parties are responsible for selecting and submitting their candidates, while INEC administers the electoral process in accordance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act and relevant regulations.

According to INEC, its candidate nomination portal keeps records of activities carried out by political parties through access credentials provided to their authorised representatives.

The commission said these electronic records, together with relevant documentary evidence, could be examined to establish the source and history of any disputed candidate entry.

INEC Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, said the commission was reviewing its electronic and documentary records to determine how the names appeared on the portal.

He said the investigation would provide an objective account of the process and establish whether there was any unauthorised interference.

The NDC had raised particular concerns about Anambra, the home state of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The party alleged that several individuals whose names were not approved by its leadership appeared on the published list.

The party said the development had created confusion among its supporters and could undermine its participation in the election.

NDC National Chairman, Moses Cleopas Zuwoghe, called for the investigation to be extended to other states where the party claimed to have noticed similar discrepancies.

The party also indicated that it could seek legal redress if the disputed names were not removed and its nominated candidates restored.

INEC maintained that it would not impose candidates on any political party and urged the NDC to provide evidence of any alleged misconduct by commission officials.

The commission said any credible allegation against its personnel would be investigated in accordance with established procedures.

The controversy comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with candidate nomination and publication becoming increasingly important to the electoral process.

The investigation is expected to clarify how the disputed names entered the NDC list and determine whether any individual or institution was responsible for the alleged discrepancies.

Both INEC and the NDC have maintained that the matter should be resolved through evidence and lawful procedures as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.