INEC to launch new party registration portal as applications reach 129

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has received 129 applications from associations seeking registration as political parties.

In a statement issued on Thursday at the end of the commission’s regular weekly meeting, Sam Olumekun, INEC national commissioner and chairman of the information and voter education committee, said seven new applications were submitted within the past week, taking the tally to 129.

“At its regular weekly meeting held today, Thursday, 10th July 2025, the commission received a further update on additional requests from associations seeking registration as political parties,” the statement reads.

“Since last week, seven more applications have been received, bringing the total number so far to 129. All the requests are being processed.

“Unlike the manual method used in previous registration, the Commission is introducing a political party registration portal, which is a module in our Party Financial Reporting and Auditing System.

“This will make the process faster and seamless. In the next week, the commission will conclude the final testing of the portal before deployment.

“Thereafter, the next step for associations that meet the requirements to proceed to the application stage will be announced.

“The commission will also issue guidelines to facilitate the filing of applications using the PFRAS.”