INEC Clears 1,303 Candidates for 2027 Senate Race as Akpabio, Uzodimma, Oshiomhole Eye Return.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the full list of candidates for the 2027 senatorial elections, clearing a total of 1,303 aspirants to contest the 109 senatorial seats and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) slot. The list, which features candidates from 21 political parties, sets the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested legislative battle.

Leading the pack is Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who is seeking re-election to represent Akwa Ibom North-West under the All Progressives Congress (APC). His deputy, Barau Jibrin, is also on the ballot, alongside former Edo State governor Adams Oshiomhole, who currently represents Edo North. The trio are expected to play major roles in the race for the Senate presidency in the 11th National Assembly.

The APC fielded a full slate of 109 candidates, while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) followed closely with 108. The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) put forward 94 candidates, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) 104, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 101. Other parties, including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Action Democratic Party (ADP), and Labour Party (LP), also fielded substantial numbers.

Among the prominent names on the list are former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, former Zamfara governor Abdulaziz Yari, former Bayelsa governor Seriake Dickson, and former Abia governor Orji Kalu. Also seeking a return to the upper chamber are Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central), former aviation minister Stella Oduah, and former Delta governor Ifeanyi Okowa. Incumbent Imo State governor Hope Uzodimma, who previously served as senator for Imo West, is also contesting, alongside Gombe governor Inuwa Yahaya.

The 2027 election is expected to ignite fresh political calculations, particularly around the Senate presidency. Akpabio, who defeated Yari in 2023 to lead the 10th Senate, is widely expected to seek another term if he retains his seat. However, he is likely to face challenges from heavyweights like Uzodimma and Oshiomhole, both of whom bring significant experience to the table.

The contest has also been shaped by recent procedural changes. The Senate had initially introduced a rule requiring presiding officers to be ranking senators, which would have excluded first-time lawmakers. That provision was rescinded in May 2026 after facing opposition and constitutional concerns, reopening the door for new senators to vie for leadership positions.

With the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for 16 January 2027, and governorship and state assembly polls set for 6 February, the political atmosphere is already heating up. The final battle for the Senate presidency will ultimately depend on the composition of the 11th Senate, the APC's zoning arrangement, and the contenders' ability to rally support among their colleagues.

For now, all eyes are on INEC's list as Nigeria prepares for another pivotal electoral season.