The All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a significant step ahead of the 2027 general elections by formally requesting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding political party membership registration. This demand was articulated in a letter dated October 9, 2026, addressed to the INEC Chairman, and co-signed by APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda and National Secretary Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru.

The Supreme Court's ruling, delivered on September 24, 2026, in the case of INEC v. Zenith Labour Party, reinforced the stipulations of Section 77 of the Electoral Act 2026. It mandates that political parties must submit their membership registers to INEC at least 21 days prior to any primary elections, congresses, or conventions. This ruling is seen as a crucial measure to ensure transparency and accountability within political parties as Nigeria gears up for its upcoming elections.

In its letter, the APC emphasized the importance of this ruling for maintaining internal democracy within political parties. The party underscored that only members whose names are included in the submitted registers should be eligible to vote or contest in internal elections. This stipulation aims to foster a more credible electoral process, starting from the foundational level of party governance.

Furthermore, the APC urged INEC to ensure that all registered political parties comply with this requirement and to take appropriate actions against any violations. The party's request highlights the need for equal treatment of all political entities, asserting that the integrity of national elections is contingent upon orderly and transparent internal processes within the parties themselves.

As the political landscape continues to evolve in Nigeria, the APC's call for strict adherence to the rule of law at the party level is a clear indication of its commitment to upholding democratic principles. The party believes that these measures are essential for the overall integrity of the electoral process, especially as the nation approaches a pivotal election period.

At the time of this report, INEC had not publicly responded to the APC's letter, leaving the implications of this demand and the enforcement of the Supreme Court ruling in a state of anticipation as the electoral timeline progresses.