TNN President Claims 43 Million Members, Accuses INEC of Registration Delays
Modibbo Yakubun Farakwai, the president of Team New Nigeria (TNN), has asserted that the yet-to-be-registered political party boasts over 43 million registered members across Nigeria. This announcement comes amid accusations that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is intentionally delaying the party's registration process, despite TNN allegedly fulfilling all statutory requirements.
Farakwai's Inaugural Address and Strategic Preparations
Speaking on Monday, March 30, during an inaugural address titled "Beyond Registration: Consolidating Our Numerical Strength and Strategic Partnerships for 2027," Farakwai emphasized the movement's readiness for political engagement. He stated that TNN is actively strengthening its internal structures and mobilization networks to navigate Nigeria's complex political landscape. "We stand here today at a defining intersection of history and destiny," he declared, highlighting the resilience required for this political marathon.
To bolster its capacity, TNN has inaugurated several strategic committees, including the national political engagement committee (NPEC), the nationwide reliability network committee (NRNC), the national policy and intellectual engagement committee (NPIEC), and the national conference organizing committee. Additionally, mobilisation directorates for women, youths, students, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) have been unveiled to enhance grassroots outreach.
Allegations Against INEC and Coalition Options
Farakwai accused INEC of deliberate delays in approving TNN's registration, suggesting it is a tactical move by the political establishment to thwart the party's growth. "We have fulfilled every constitutional requirement and met every statutory obligation for registration," he asserted. "Yet, we sit here today facing an inexplicable delay from INEC. This is not a procedural failure. This is a tactical retreat by a terrified establishment."
In response to these challenges, Farakwai indicated that TNN is open to exploring coalition options with existing political platforms if the registration delay persists. He emphasized that the movement's 43 million members, spread across all 774 local government areas and 8,809 electoral wards, represent a formidable force. "Whether we arrive on the ballot as a registered party or as the soul of a formidable coalition, the result will be the same: The 43 million will be heard," he stated, underscoring TNN's commitment to a Coalition of Purpose rather than a merger of convenience.
Upcoming National Ratification Conference
Farakwai announced plans for a national ratification conference scheduled for April 8, with the theme 'Unite and Rebuild the Nation: A Path to a Greater Nigeria.' The event is expected to draw a massive gathering of two million members, including 9,985 statutory delegates, further solidifying TNN's organizational strength.
Context of INEC's Recent Actions
This development occurs as INEC has recently registered two new political parties ahead of the 2027 elections: the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA). INEC chairman Joash Amupitan confirmed these registrations on Thursday, February 5, following a rigorous assessment process that reviewed 171 letters of intent from associations seeking recognition. This backdrop adds complexity to TNN's allegations of unfair treatment in the registration process.
