A prominent chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has cautioned the National Assembly against rescheduling the general elections to 2026. According to Oguntoyinbo, such a move would undermine the electoral process and hinder adequate preparations by political parties, candidates, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The National Assembly had proposed November 2026 as the new date for the general elections, sparking concerns among stakeholders. Oguntoyinbo emphasized that rushing the electoral process would have severe negative implications, including inadequate planning and insufficient time for parties to recruit candidates and for candidates to prepare.
Elections, Oguntoyinbo noted, are a critical aspect of national development, requiring careful planning and execution. He urged the National Assembly to exercise caution, considering the potential consequences of bringing the elections forward. “We cannot be in a perpetual election period; governance is necessary for the country’s development,” he stated.
The NNPP chieftain’s concerns are rooted in the need for a well-organized and timely electoral process. He stressed that political parties, candidates, and INEC require sufficient time and resources to prepare for the elections. By moving the elections to 2026, the National Assembly would be putting undue pressure on these stakeholders, potentially compromising the integrity of the electoral process.
As the debate over the election date continues, Oguntoyinbo’s warning highlights the importance of careful consideration and planning in the electoral process. The National Assembly’s decision will have significant implications for the country’s democratic development, making it essential to prioritize the needs of stakeholders and ensure a smooth and credible electoral process. The proposed date change has sparked concerns among various stakeholders, and it remains to be seen how the National Assembly will proceed with the election scheduling.
