The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed receiving letters of intent from 110 associations seeking registration as political parties ahead of future elections.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, made the announcement on Wednesday, stating that the applications are currently being processed in line with the country’s electoral laws, regulations, and the Commission’s 2022 guidelines.
Among the applicants are political associations with links to prominent political movements and figures. These include the Obidient Peoples Party (OPP) and the Progressive Obedients Party, both referencing the popular “Obidient” movement inspired by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Mr. Barry Avotu Johnson is listed as the protem national chairman of the OPP.
Another applicant, the Advanced Democratic Alliance (ADA), is said to have backing from notable figures in the opposition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-governors Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai, as well as Dr. Umar Ardo, convener of the League of Northern Democrats.
“As of Monday, June 23, 2025, the Commission has received letters of intent from 110 associations wishing to register as political parties. We are diligently processing the requests in accordance with the law and our guidelines,” said Professor Yakubu.
He noted that all applications have been acknowledged, except for six that were recently submitted and will be processed by the end of the week.
The INEC Chairman encouraged interested individuals and groups to consult the Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties 2022, which are available on the Commission’s website, to ensure full compliance with requirements.
Yakubu also announced that INEC has released the full list of the 110 applying associations, including their proposed names, acronyms, addresses, and the names of their chairmen and secretaries.
“The list will be uploaded to our website and social media platforms shortly. Hard copies have also been provided in your folders for this meeting,” he added.
