Several political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Social Democratic Party (SDP), have challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the omission of some candidates from its final list for the 2027 governorship and state assembly elections.

The controversy followed the publication of the list on October 10, with affected parties seeking explanations and possible corrections.

Among those reportedly omitted are PDP governorship candidates Oladipupo Adebutu in Ogun State and Isa Ali Pantami in Gombe State. The NDC’s Kano governorship candidate, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, and his running mate, Mustapha Rabi’u Kwankwaso, were also reportedly missing, alongside the SDP’s Benue candidate, Professor Sebastine Hon. The ADC has raised concerns over omissions affecting its candidates in Cross River and Jigawa states.

The PDP says it is engaging INEC to resolve the issue, while the NDC has indicated it may pursue legal action. The Kwankwasiyya Movement has also urged calm and called on INEC to explain the omission of the NDC candidates in Kano.

The development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.