A new report under the European Union-funded Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria programme has raised concerns over the transparency and inclusiveness of political party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The report examines the 2026 party primaries and identifies areas where the process could be strengthened to improve confidence in the selection of candidates.

The EU research team, whose findings were presented by Ralph-Michael Peters, says some key aspects of the primaries remain difficult for party members, aspirants and observers to independently verify. The report also highlights concerns around the cost of nomination forms and the participation of women, young people and persons with disabilities.

The report recommends greater transparency in the selection and replacement of candidates, including clearer explanations and documentation where results are disputed or candidates are substituted. It also calls for stronger internal dispute-resolution mechanisms within political parties and greater disclosure of information relating to party primaries.

The researchers say strengthening internal party processes is important to the credibility of the wider electoral process.

They recommend that political parties and electoral institutions make relevant information more accessible and ensure that complaints arising from primaries are addressed promptly, as the choices made within political parties ultimately determine who appears on the ballot for voters.