The Nigeria Democratic Coalition (NDC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of denying it access to the necessary code to upload its candidates’ names to the electoral body’s nomination portal, just as the party prepares to challenge a court order that mandates its deregistration. The development comes after a Federal High Court recently ruled that INEC must deregister the NDC, citing procedural and legal grounds. With the deadline for candidate submission looming, the party claims it was left unable to complete the mandatory online process due to INEC’s failure to provide the required access credentials.
Osa Director, the national spokesman for the NDC, confirmed that the party formally approached INEC to obtain the access code needed to submit its candidates’ details. He stated that INEC officials responded by saying they would “get back” to the party, but no further communication or action followed. As a result, the NDC was unable to upload the names of its candidates before the court’s deregistration order took effect. Director emphasized that this delay should not be seen as a failure by the party, but rather as a consequence of INEC’s inaction.
The NDC’s inability to meet the submission deadline has raised concerns about its ability to participate in upcoming elections, especially as the court’s order could lead to its removal from the electoral register. Director, however, remains defiant, stating that the party will return to INEC the following day to re-engage on the matter. He also revealed that legal proceedings are underway to seek a stay of execution on the court’s judgment, which would temporarily halt the deregistration process.
“This is not a matter of non-compliance on our part,” Director said. “We have fulfilled all requirements, but we are being blocked by INEC’s refusal to provide the access code.” He added that the party is determined to fight for its right to exist and participate in Nigeria’s democratic process. The NDC is now relying on both administrative and legal avenues to resolve the situation, including potential appeals and interventions from higher courts.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between political parties and INEC, particularly around access to electoral systems and adherence to timelines. As Nigeria prepares for future elections, the credibility of electoral processes and the fairness of access to nomination platforms remain critical issues. The NDC’s case could set a precedent for how parties respond to court-ordered deregistrations and how electoral bodies handle requests for candidate submissions. The outcome of the legal challenge may influence the broader political landscape and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral framework in the coming months.
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