9am News report that Ibrahim Kalgo, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of working in collusion with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to obstruct efforts by a coalition seeking to register new political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Friday, Kalgo alleged that INEC’s refusal to approve over 70 applications for new political parties was not only undemocratic but a calculated move to suppress rising opposition to the APC-led government.
Kalgo claimed that the electoral body had deliberately refused to acknowledge or respond to valid registration applications submitted by various groups in the coalition.
“I think INEC is being biased and also afraid because the coalition is here to defeat APC come 2027 election,” he said.
He further alleged that INEC was no longer acting as a neutral umpire but rather operating in tandem with the ruling party, frustrating legitimate political processes that would allow Nigerians more electoral options.
“What we are saying is that it is like INEC is working hand in hand with the APC government,” Kalgo continued. “These are political parties or groups trying to form a party and give its platform for Nigerians to vote for a new face and a new choice of their own.”
Kalgo referenced existing electoral laws which mandate INEC to respond to registration applications within 90 days. He argued that, legally, a lack of response within this period automatically qualifies a party for registration.
“Are you saying all the 70 applicants filed wrong applications or not complete requirements? If INEC doesn’t respond within 90 days, the party is deemed registered.”
He framed INEC’s silence as a deliberate tactic to stifle political competition, adding that “APC is afraid of a united opposition” and fears losing power in 2027.
Kalgo also took aim at the Bola Tinubu-led administration, criticizing its performance after two years in office.
“The APC government has failed Nigeria woefully, and they are doing nothing about it. This is two years down and nothing to show on the ground. What are we seeing? Suffering. People dying on a daily basis. Unemployment.”
He concluded with a firm statement of intent:
“We, the coalition, are pushing to see that INEC accepts this request, registers us as a new party, so come 2027 we can give Nigerians the real dividend of the government they are looking for.”
The allegation adds to the growing tension surrounding Nigeria’s electoral system and calls for electoral reform as the country heads toward the next general elections.
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