Over 110 Groups, Including ‘Obidients’ and ADA, Apply for INEC Political Party Registration
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed the receipt of 110 applications from political associations seeking registration as official political parties ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Among the prominent names are the Obidient Peoples Party and the Progressive Obedients Party, both linked to the popular “Obidient” movement inspired by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The Obidient Peoples Party lists Mr. Barry Avotu Johnson as its protem national chairman.
Also on the list is the Advanced Democratic Alliance (ADA) — a proposed platform reportedly backed by an anti-Tinubu coalition, including influential figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and others.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this during the commission’s second quarterly consultative meeting with media executives held in Abuja. He stressed that all applications are being processed in line with the Electoral Act and constitutional provisions, with no group receiving special treatment.
“All submissions are undergoing due diligence, and only those meeting the legal and administrative criteria will be approved,” Prof. Yakubu stated.
The full list of applicants spans a wide spectrum of ideologies and includes names like:
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Key of Freedom Party
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Socialist Equality Party
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Movement of the People
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New Nigeria Congress
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All Labour’s Party
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Patriots Alliance Network
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Rebuild Nigeria Group
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Democratic Union for Progress
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Access Party
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The Populist Party
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Advanced Democratic Alliance (ADA)
This surge in applications reflects the dynamic shifts in Nigeria’s political climate, with many new movements and coalitions emerging to challenge the dominance of existing parties.
INEC’s review process is ongoing, and any association that meets the statutory requirements will be granted full registration as a political party.
