Abuja, Nigeria – June 25, 2025 — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the registration request of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), a political coalition widely perceived as an anti-Tinubu movement, citing procedural and legal shortcomings.

According to an official statement from the electoral body, ADA failed to submit a formal application for registration, offering only a “letter of intent” that does not meet the constitutional or electoral guidelines required to initiate the process of party registration.

“INEC received only a letter indicating interest. There was no formal application as required by the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022,” a top INEC official told reporters in Abuja.

The Commission also flagged other key compliance issues, including:

Failure to submit a party constitution and manifesto.

Lack of evidence of a functional national headquarters in Abuja.

Inability to show nationwide representation with executive members from at least 24 states.

Errors in official communication, including improperly addressing the Commission without the word “Electoral” in its official name.

Not Political—Just Legal, INEC Says

While ADA has gained attention for positioning itself as a coalition seeking to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s influence in the 2027 elections, INEC insists the decision was based solely on legal grounds.

“This is not a political decision. It is a matter of procedure and compliance. Any group that wishes to be registered must meet the constitutional criteria,” the INEC source added.

Political analysts say the coalition can still correct its mistakes and reapply, but time is of the essence. INEC typically requires political parties to be registered well ahead of a general election—often at least one year prior.

For ADA to stand a chance in the 2027 elections, they must now:

Submit a complete application.

Fulfill all documentary and constitutional requirements.

Ensure national spread, as stipulated in the Electoral Act.

An alliance of activists, opposition organizations, and political leaders, ADA was formed earlier this year with the goal of establishing a “fresh democratic front” in advance of the 2027 elections. The movement considers the denial of its registration to be a significant setback.

By Erewunmi Peace