The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised strong concerns over the newly adjusted election timetable unveiled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that the schedule could effectively shut out opposition parties from participating fully in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a programme on Channels Television, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that the revised timeline—when considered alongside provisions of the Electoral Act 2026—places heavy compliance demands on smaller political parties.
According to Abdullahi, the ADC’s objection to the timetable cannot be separated from its broader dissatisfaction with the Electoral Act 2026, which he said contains stringent conditions that are difficult to meet within the timeframe provided.
Digitalised Membership
He explained that the law requires political parties to submit a fully digitalised membership register covering all 36 states of the federation when notifying INEC of congresses or conventions.
Meeting this requirement within roughly a month, he said, presents serious logistical and operational challenges.
Abdullahi maintained that building a comprehensive digital membership database across the country in such a short period is not only demanding but, in practical terms, nearly unachievable for many opposition parties.
He also contrasted the situation with preparations by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Abdullahi alleged that the APC began updating its membership records as far back as February 2025 and engaged consultants to develop a digital register well ahead of the 2027 elections.
“What reportedly took the ruling party over a year to accomplish is now expected of others within a matter of weeks,” he suggested, questioning the fairness of the requirements.
Electoral Act
The ADC spokesperson further described the provisions as structural barriers that could weaken opposition participation.
He noted that failure to comply with the stipulated requirements may disqualify parties from fielding candidates, a consequence he said threatens political pluralism.
The party insists that the combination of the revised timetable and the Electoral Act’s provisions raises concerns about inclusivity and fairness.
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It warned that unless the issues are addressed, public confidence in the credibility of the 2027 general elections could be affected.