The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has denied the appeal by the 18 registered Nigerian political parties under the aegis of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) to extend the date for primaries.
What’s happening
INEC set a deadline of June 3rd, 2022 for political parties in Nigeria to conduct their respective primaries and submit their flag bearers ahead of the 2023 general elections.
- APC, PDP, AAC and other parties in the country are each facing unique challenges which could test their preparedness for the scheduled primaries at the end of the month.
- These issues, as identified by IPAC National Chairman, Yabagi Sani, includes forthcoming Ekiti and Osun State governorship elections slated for 18th and 16th June 2022, and the screening of the large number of aspirants.
- Unconfirmed sources report that more candidates are yet to declare their interest in the 2023 elections.
- INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu insisted that the parties must comply with the commission’s June 3rd deadline.
Why it matters
INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu says an altercation in the timelines would have an impact on the inter-related activities already set.
- According to Prof Yakubu, an extension would also put pressure on both the commission and the political parties.