Decision Lead
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that public inspection of the credentials and personal particulars submitted by candidates contesting the 2027 presidential, senatorial and House of Representatives elections in Lagos State will begin on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
The exercise forms part of the commission’s statutory responsibilities under the Electoral Act 2022 and is intended to promote transparency before the elections.
Quick Takeaways
- Public inspection begins August 1, 2026.
- The exercise covers presidential, senatorial and House of Representatives candidates in Lagos State.
- Documents include Form EC9, candidates’ credentials and supporting affidavits.
- Inspection will take place at the INEC Lagos State Office and designated Local Government Area offices.
- Individuals who identify false declarations may seek legal remedies under the Electoral Act 2022.
Official Confirmation
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by Mrs Esther Emeh, Head of Voter Education and Publicity at INEC Lagos State.
According to the commission, the public display is being conducted in compliance with Section 29 of the Electoral Act 2022, which provides for public access to documents submitted by candidates sponsored by political parties.
INEC urged registered political parties, nominated candidates, election stakeholders and members of the public to inspect the documents during the display period.
Key Facts
The commission explained that Form EC9 contains the personal particulars, educational qualifications, supporting credentials and affidavits submitted by candidates seeking elective office.
It also reminded the public that any individual with evidence suggesting a candidate submitted false information or forged documents may challenge the submission through the legal procedures provided under the Electoral Act.
The inspection process is intended to ensure that candidate information remains open to public scrutiny before the electoral process advances to subsequent stages.
Story in Context
Public display of candidates’ credentials is one of the transparency mechanisms established under Nigeria’s electoral framework.
By allowing political parties, civil society organisations, election observers and members of the public to examine submitted documents, the process promotes accountability and provides an opportunity for legitimate objections before elections are conducted.
The exercise also supports confidence in the electoral process by ensuring that questions concerning candidate eligibility can be addressed through established legal channels.
Next Procedure
Following the commencement of the inspection exercise, interested individuals and organisations may review the displayed documents throughout the designated period.
Where credible concerns arise over the authenticity of information submitted by any candidate, the Electoral Act provides legal procedures through which such issues may be challenged before the electoral process progresses.
INEC said the exercise reflects its continuing commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections, while encouraging public participation in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
