Group pushes for INEC election rules to be published officially

A civil society group, Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish the Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, 2026.

KDI made this appeal on Monday in a press statement signed by its Executive Director, Bukola Idowu.

Mr Idowu said this move “is an important step to strengthen transparency, ensure stakeholder readiness, and provide legal clarity ahead of upcoming elections.”

He added, “The lack of a formally published version leaves the legal and operational framework for elections under the Electoral Act, 2026 incomplete.”

Mr Idowu praised INEC for its efforts in creating the guidelines. But he stressed that publishing it in the federal government gazette “confirms the guidelines’ authenticity and effective use.”

He called for the guidelines to be published before the 2027 general elections. Mr Idowu pointed out that this will help electoral stakeholders understand the rules that govern the electoral process.

“This also increases public trust in electoral integrity and reduces legal and administrative conflicts,” he said.

Mr Idowu mentioned that the published guidelines would act as “an official reference for courts and tribunals in interpreting and applying electoral procedures when issues arise.”

“KDI therefore calls on INEC to take all necessary steps for the quick publication and wide public distribution of the Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections,” Mr Idowu said.

On 1 March, INEC announced a review of its Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties to align with the Electoral Act 2026 “and new electoral realities.”

The guidelines detail the rules for political parties, candidate nominations, campaign periods, and polling unit operations.