2027: INEC Drop Adebutu, Pantami, Kano NDC Candidate From Governorship List As Affected Camps React

According to a report published by The Nation on Sunday, October 11, the electoral commission did not provide specific explanations for excluding the three politicians. However, the decision is reportedly linked to disagreements surrounding party membership registers and compliance with electoral requirements.

INEC had previously warned political parties that candidates whose names were absent from the membership registers submitted to the commission would be ineligible to participate in the elections. The commission also stated that parties would not be allowed to replace candidates who were disqualified on this basis.

Pantami’s associates have described his exclusion as a temporary setback, urging his supporters to remain calm while efforts are made to address the situation. They indicated that his legal team was already working to resolve the matter and pursue the necessary steps to challenge the decision.

In Ogun State, the PDP accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of influencing Adebutu’s exclusion from the list. The opposition party maintained that its governorship candidate had completed the required membership registration process. However, INEC has not confirmed the allegation or publicly explained the circumstances surrounding Adebutu’s omission.

Gwarzo’s absence from the list also presents a challenge for the NDC in Kano State. The former deputy governor reportedly resigned after declining to follow Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in his political movement from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC.

Despite the exclusions, INEC’s final list contains several prominent political figures seeking governorship positions in 2027. They include Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami, and former House of Representatives Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda.

The controversy comes after the Supreme Court, on September 24, restored provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 relating to party membership registers and eligibility requirements for primary elections.

INEC has continued to emphasise that political parties must follow the relevant legal provisions when selecting and submitting candidates for the 2027 elections. The exclusions are likely to generate further political and legal discussions as affected candidates and their parties consider their available options ahead of the polls.

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