INEC Releases Tinubu, Atiku, Obi, 16 Other Presidential Candidates’ Names, Particulars

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially released the personal details of 19 individuals vying for the presidency in the 2027 general election. This publication includes the particulars of the incumbent President Bola Tinubu, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC); former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC); and Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, who is running under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) banner.

Alongside the presidential hopefuls, INEC also displayed the names and details of their respective running mates. Vice President Kashim Shettima is listed as Tinubu's partner, while former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, will run with Atiku Abubakar. Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State, is the running mate for Peter Obi.

The release of these particulars, documented in Form EC9, is a statutory requirement mandated by Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act, 2026. INEC is obligated to publish candidates' information within 21 days of receiving it. The published list features a diverse range of candidates and their parties, including Senator Sandy Onor (PDP), Omoyele Sowore (AAC), Donald Duke (PRP), and others.

However, the list notably omits the name of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who was reportedly nominated by a faction of the PDP. Additionally, Gbenga Olawepo Hashim, who claimed to be the Accord party's candidate, was also absent. The Accord party had previously stated it had no presidential candidate due to missed nomination deadlines.

The published documents provide comprehensive details about each candidate, including their academic qualifications and the institutions they attended, along with the relevant dates. This information is being made public ahead of the official commencement of political campaigns for the presidential election on August 19, 2026.