Independent National Electoral Commission has stated that parties can no longer substitute the candidates whose names are published on its final lists.

The commission, which stated that the window for withdrawing and substituting candidates had closed, also said that only deceased candidates and nominees whose nominations have been revoked by the courts could be substituted.

The Nation reported that INEC had also disclosed that only the New Nigerian People's Party, (NNPP), approached it to replace Mallam Ahmad Shekarau, who defected to Peoples Democratic Party PDP.

Shekaru was the NNPP's senatorial nominee for Kano Central. He then quit the party. This forced the NNPP to approach INEC to request a substitution. INEC denied the request of NNPP because it was made after time had expired for substitution.

Festus Okoye, INEC Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee and National Commissioner, confirmed the development and said;

“The period for the withdrawal and substitution of candidates has elapsed and the Commission has published the final list of candidates standing nominated for national and state elections.

“At this point in time, a candidate can only get on the list if the duly and validly nominated candidate dies. Any form of withdrawal on grounds of voluntary withdrawal or incapacitation can no longer take place.

“Yes, the Commission is aware of some pending litigations. At the end of the day, the Commission will comply with valid court orders based on constitutional dictates. We urge political parties to focus on their campaigns and rallies as the next big thing in the electoral process.

“The Commission is now focused on making the Permanent Voters Cards available for collection by legally registered persons. The Commission is also focussed at making sure that voters are equitably distributed to the various polling units.

“The Commission will not be distracted with belated requests for withdrawals and substitution of candidates. All the registered political parties have a copy of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities released on the February 26, 2022 and the schedule and timelines are clearly delineated.”