The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed reports suggesting that it has issued access codes to political parties for the nomination of candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The electoral body clarified that no political party has been granted access codes for candidate nominations at this stage, stressing that the process will only commence in line with the timetable and schedule of activities already released for the elections.

INEC explained that while registered political parties have submitted their membership registers as required by law, the commission is currently carrying out verification and other preparatory activities before proceeding to subsequent stages of the electoral process.

The commission noted that the verification exercise is necessary to ensure compliance with electoral regulations and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

INEC urged political parties, stakeholders and members of the public to disregard misinformation regarding the issuance of access codes, reiterating that all procedures relating to candidate nominations and party primaries will be conducted strictly in accordance with the Electoral Act and the commission’s guidelines.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, credible and transparent elections, assuring Nigerians that all registered political parties would be treated equally throughout the electoral process.