INEC Denies Removing NDC Candidates, Challenges Party To Produce Evidence

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has denied allegations by the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, that it removed candidates nominated by the party for the 2027 general election.

The NDC had alleged that the Commission replaced its candidates with unknown names, particularly in some State House of Assembly constituencies in Anambra State.

Reacting, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, described the allegation as false.

Speaking with newsmen, Oketola said INEC does not nominate candidates for political parties.

He explained that nomination of candidates is the sole responsibility of political parties, subject to compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act 2026 and other applicable laws, regulations and guidelines.

He said the claim that INEC officials obtained Form EC9 directly from aspirants and uploaded their particulars without party authorization is particularly serious.

The Commission therefore challenged the NDC to produce evidence implicating any of its officials in unauthorised interference with its nomination process and present particulars of such officials.

INEC added that any credible allegation of misconduct by its staff will be investigated in line with established procedures.