The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for releasing the final list of candidates for the 2027 governorship elections, while cautioning politicians and the public against blaming the electoral body over names missing from the list.
The coalition described the publication of the final candidates’ list as an important step in the electoral process, saying it gives political parties, candidates and voters greater clarity ahead of the elections.
In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Dr. Tabuko Kennedy, COCSON said INEC’s decision to keep to the electoral timetable would strengthen transparency, public confidence and the credibility of the election process.
The coalition, however, warned that the absence of a candidate’s name should not be seen as evidence that INEC acted unfairly or deliberately excluded anyone.
According to the group, missing names could result from court judgments, pending litigation, disputes arising from party primaries, failure to meet legal nomination requirements or other procedural issues beyond the Commission’s control.
COCSON said, “The absence of a candidate’s name does not automatically imply deliberate exclusion or wrongdoing by the Commission. Such situations may arise from court judgments, litigation, disputes over party primaries, failure to meet statutory nomination requirements or other legal and procedural issues.”
The coalition added that in some cases, responsibility may rest with the affected political party or candidate, urging parties to ensure that their nomination processes comply fully with the Electoral Act and other legal requirements.
It advised candidates whose names are missing to seek clarification from INEC and pursue any grievances through the courts instead of making unfounded allegations against the electoral body.
While insisting that INEC must remain accountable for its actions, COCSON stressed that the Commission should not be blamed for issues arising from court orders, party nomination disputes or procedural failures outside its control.
The group also appealed to politicians and their supporters to avoid violence, intimidation and hate speech as campaigns gather momentum ahead of the governorship elections.
COCSON urged security agencies to remain professional and impartial, while calling on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and work together to ensure peaceful, credible and hitch-free elections.