INEC's Slow Pace on Electronic Registration Hinders NNPP's Recruitment Efforts, Says Party Founder

The New Nigeria Peoples Party is facing challenges with its registration and membership drive across the country due to a delay by the Independent National Electoral Commission in updating the party's current leadership on its website, according to the party's Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Boniface Aniebonam.

n

This issue was highlighted by Dr Aniebonam in a statement released on Thursday in Lagos, where he expressed concerns about the impact of the delay on the party's preparations for the 2027 general elections.

n

INEC had previously instructed all political parties to ensure electronic registration of their members nationwide to enable participation in the 2027 elections, but the NNPP's efforts have been hindered by its ongoing dispute with the Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso-led group.

n

Dr Aniebonam stated that the party's membership drive and e-registration have been slow due to the continued face-off with the Kwankwaso-led group, which has resulted in a delay in the recognition of the Agbo Major-led National Working Committee of the NNPP by INEC.

n

The delay has led to the NNPP not fielding candidates in some elections in the past, a situation Dr Aniebonam described as regrettable and embarrassing, and has caused some members to become sceptical about the party's ability to participate in the 2027 general elections.

n

Despite the challenges, Dr Aniebonam expressed optimism that INEC would resolve the issue without further delay, and hoped that members who had left the party due to the internal crisis would return.

n

The NNPP portal is already open, and registration has begun for members and intending members nationwide, with Dr Aniebonam urging stakeholders to be patient and remain committed to the party.

n

The exit of Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State and a few others from the party due to escalating court cases was acknowledged by Dr Aniebonam, but he expressed hope that the party would have a better outing in the 2027 elections.

n

Dr Aniebonam reiterated that Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, the NNPP's 2023 presidential candidate, and his followers, including Elder Buba Galadima, remain expelled from the party, citing the need to teach others that anti-party activities have consequences.