The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has distanced itself from the Labour Party (LP) National Convention that took place in Anambra on Wednesday. Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, made this statement during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday.
Oyekanmi clarified that INEC did not monitor the convention and chose not to elaborate on the reasons behind this decision. Despite the lack of monitoring, the LP successfully shifted the convention from Umuahia in Abia to Nnewi in Anambra State.
Addressing the change in venue, Mr. Kehinde Edun, the LP National Legal Adviser, informed the press that the party had duly notified INEC about the change in venue and date. He emphasized that the party has the freedom to select any venue of their choice, as long as they inform INEC about the changes.
According to Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, political parties are required to give INEC at least 21 days notice of any convention, congress, conference, or meeting. This notification includes events related to mergers, electing executive committee members, governing bodies, or nominating candidates.
In conclusion, the LP National Convention in Anambra proceeded smoothly, despite INEC’s lack of involvement in monitoring the event. The party adhered to the necessary protocols and regulations outlined in the Electoral Act, ensuring a transparent and lawful process.
