The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to open its portal today for political parties to upload the names and particulars of their governorship, deputy governorship and State House of Assembly candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The upload exercise, which begins at 9:00 a.m. today and ends at 6:00 p.m. on August 8, marks a critical stage in the electoral process by confirming the official candidates of political parties. INEC had earlier concluded the submission of presidential and National Assembly candidates on July 14.
The development comes after primary elections conducted by most political parties were marred by disputes, with several aspirants rejecting declared winners or laying claim to party tickets.
As parties prepare for the submission process, attention has shifted to the selection of deputy governorship candidates. Across many states, the choice of running mates is being influenced by factors such as regional balance, religious considerations, gender, age and political alliances.
In Kaduna State, both the APC governorship candidate, Governor Uba Sani, and the ADC candidate, Isa Ashiru, are yet to announce their running mates.
Sources indicate that the ADC deputy governorship slot has been ceded to former Governor Nasir el-Rufai’s political camp, while Governor Uba Sani is also expected to choose a candidate from Southern Kaduna.
In Bauchi State, the APM, APC and PDP have unveiled their deputy governorship candidates, while the PRP and ADC are still consulting.
Similarly, Nasarawa State has witnessed mixed developments, with the PDP retaining its 2023 governorship ticket, while the APC, Labour Party and ADC are yet to announce their running mates amid ongoing political consultations.
In Borno State, no fewer than 27 politicians, including three former deputy governors and the state APC chairman, are reportedly seeking the APC deputy governorship ticket. Governor Babagana Zulum has maintained that he will not personally decide the choice, in line with the state’s established zoning tradition.
Other states, including Gombe, Taraba, Rivers, Katsina and Kwara, are still finalising consultations before unveiling their deputy governorship candidates.
Meanwhile, the APC in Yobe has completed its ticket by pairing governorship candidate Baba Malam Wali with former Attorney-General Sale Samanja, while other parties are yet to conclude the process.
In Kano, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has already named Murtala Sule Galadima Garo as his running mate, citing his loyalty and contributions to the administration.
Elsewhere, Adamawa, Oyo and Benue have also recorded varying levels of progress, with some parties unveiling running mates while others continue internal consultations.
With INEC’s submission portal now open, political parties are expected to conclude all outstanding negotiations and formally submit the names of their governorship teams within the stipulated deadline, setting the stage for the next phase of preparations for the 2027 general elections. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
