The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to explain why the voters’ register still contains the names of deceased Nigerians as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Key points: the party cites the inclusion of late figures such as Raymond Dokpesi, Ifeanyi Ubah, former President Muhammadu Buhari and Rotimi Akeredolu; it questions how many of the 774 local government areas may still list dead individuals; the statement was signed by Dr Chiogo Constance Ikokwu, spokesperson for the NDC’s National Presidential Campaign Council; the NDC demands a full audit of INEC’s processes and a transparent mechanism for challenging questionable entries; it stresses that INEC is funded by taxpayers and must deliver value for money.
What does the NDC want from INEC?
The party asks the electoral body to disclose the date of its last comprehensive update of the voters’ register and to clarify whether the presence of dead names stems from oversight, systemic failure or another issue. It also urges INEC to set up an online portal where objections can be lodged and where living individuals can respond to allegations of wrongful inclusion.
Which deceased individuals are reportedly still on the register?
According to the NDC, the register lists several high‑profile personalities who have passed away, including businessman‑politician Raymond Dokpesi, entrepreneur‑politician Ifeanyi Ubah, former President Muhammadu Buhari and former governor Rotimi Akeredolu. Their continued presence raises doubts about the accuracy of the entire database.
How does the party propose to address the problem?
The NDC calls for an independent, unbiased audit of INEC’s registration procedures, citing the credibility challenges observed during the 2023 elections. It also demands that INEC publish clear, step‑by‑step guidelines for contesting names that are believed to have been illegally retained on the register.
What broader concerns does the NDC raise?
Beyond the immediate issue of dead names, the party stresses that INEC must demonstrate accountability to the Nigerian public, who finance its operations. It argues that the commission should uphold the highest standards of efficiency, professionalism and transparency to ensure that the 2027 elections are conducted without any question of legitimacy.
“The electoral body is a well‑funded organisation paid for by citizens, and therefore must provide value for money,” the NDC statement read. It concluded with a firm reminder: “No excuses. No complacency. No questionable register. INEC must do its job.”