WorldStage– Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the 2027 National Assembly elections, officially clearing 1,303 senatorial hopefuls to contest for the 109 legislative seats.
Published on September 15, 2026, the list sets the stage for a high-stakes legislative battle across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
High-profile political figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, and Governor Hope Uzodimma have secured their party tickets to vie for positions in the 11th Assembly.
The publication follows months of rigorous internal party primaries and a designated window for candidate substitution.
Sponsored by 21 political parties, the extensive roster comprises established political gladiators, serving lawmakers, and a modest contingent of female contenders.
According to the document published on INEC’s official portal, Senate President Godswill Akpabio remains a central figure, flying the flag of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Akwa Ibom North-West.
Observers note that Akpabio’s bid is a calculated maneuver to maintain his influential hold over the leadership of the upper legislative chamber.
Similarly, Senator Adams Oshiomhole has been cleared to run for the Edo North senatorial district under the APC banner.
His formidable legislative track record and background as a former party national chairman place him as a potential kingmaker or direct challenger in the impending leadership scramble.
Meanwhile, political power-brokers like Governor Hope Uzodimma are actively shaping the regional landscape, ensuring that loyal stalwarts dominate the cleared candidates’ list to solidify state-level alignment ahead of 2027.
While several veterans secured their return tickets, the INEC data points to structural shifts within the Red Chamber.
A review reveals that 52 serving senators were excluded from the final list. This represents a notable turnover rate, indicating that nearly half of the current lawmakers will not be returning to their seats.
Conversely, certain states maintained total stability. In places like Lagos, Borno, and Ekiti, all three incumbent senators successfully defended their positions on the final ballot, including veteran lawmakers like Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume.
With the final list now public, political parties are legally permitted to fully activate their campaign and mobilization machineries. The election, scheduled for early 2027, is expected to dramatically redefine the balance of power between Nigeria’s executive arm and the federal legislature.
