The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected a letter inviting it to an emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) where Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello’s chairmanship, among other things, is to be ratified.
The commission disclosed this in a letter dated March 9, 2022, signed by the Secretary to INEC, Rose Anthony, titled, ‘Re: Invitation to the emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee.’
This is coming days after the ruling party announced the removal of Governor Buni as chairman of the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee.
The party said Buni was replaced by his Niger State counterpart, Bello.
The letter is addressed to the National Chairman, APC CECPC.
INEC told the CECPC that the letter of invitation was not signed by the National Chairman and National Secretary of the CECPC, Buni and Dr John Akpanudoedehe, respectively.
It said this was contrary to the provision of Article 1.1.3 of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Party Operations (2018).
Also, the commission reminded the signatories to the letter the provision in Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, “which requires ‘at least 21 days’ notice of any convention, congress, conference, or meeting convened for the purpose of merger and electing members of its executive committees, other governing bodies or nominating candidates for any elective office.”
It, therefore, urged the APC to note the issues raised and ensure immediate compliance.
INEC’s letter read, “Please refer to your letter Ref.APC/NHDQ/INEC/019/022/32, dated 8th March 2022.
“The Commission draws your attention to the fact that the notice for the meeting was not signed by the National Chairman and National Secretary of the CECPC contrary to the provision of the Article 1.1.3 of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Party Operations (2018).
“Furthermore, the APC is reminded of the provision in Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which requires ‘at least 21 days’ notice of any convention, congress, conference, or meeting convened for the purpose of ‘merger’ and electing members of its executive committees, other governing bodies or nominating candidates for any elective office.
“While hoping these issues are noted for compliance, please accept the assurance of the Commission’s warm regards.”
