The Movement of the People (MOP), a political movement inspired by the legacy of Fela Kuti, has tackled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over failure to register it despite MOP’s multiple registration attempts since 2021.
The MOP said it has also launched a nationwide advocacy campaign titled “Register To Rise: The People’s Voice for Electoral Justice.”
The campaign which aims to address critical barriers to political participation in Nigeria’s democratic process, focused on securing timely registration for MOP as an aspiring political party.
“Since 2018, no new political party has been registered in Nigeria, while 72 existing parties have been deregistered. This severe restriction limits citizens’ political choices and undermines true democratic representation,” the chairman said.
The statement noted that the campaign was a response to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) inadequate response to MOP’s multiple registration attempts since 2021.
Despite meeting all requirements and following procedures, MOP’s registration has been delayed.
“For four years, we have followed every procedure and met every requirement, yet INEC continues to delay our registration,” Seun added. “This is not just about MOP – it’s about ensuring that Nigeria’s democracy remains open to new voices and fresh ideas.”
According to the statement, the “Register To Rise” campaign will include digital mobilisation, strategic offline activities, and coalition-building with like-minded organisations across Nigeria.
“MOP is inviting other intending political movements, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens to join the coalition for electoral justice.
“Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive when the political space is continuously restricted,” Seun emphasised, highlighting the importance of the campaign.
With INEC likely to suspend registrations in February 2026 in anticipation of the 2027 elections, MOP is urging the commission to grant its registration application.
