APC Crises: Uncertainties loom as INEC rejects ruling party’s invitation

Technocrat Media, Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the invitation by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to its emergency National Executive Committee meeting in preparation for the party’s convention.

A letter surfaced on the internet on Friday believed to be issued by the Secretary to INEC, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, said the letter sent to the Commission by APC was not duly signed by the national chairman and national secretary of the party contrary to the provision of the Article 1.1.3 of the Commissions’ Regulations and Guidelines for political party operations (2018).

She stated further that “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 offices.”

Ms Anthony also added that the Commission is hopeful that APC notes the issues for compliance.

Crises have engulfed the ruling APC over the removal of its acting national chairman, Mala Buni who is the executive governor of Yobe State.

Earlier in the week, the governor of Niger State, Sani Bello took over the national secretariat of the party as national chairman in an acting capacity, who said he was acting on the order of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Some governors elected on the platform of the party – Nasir El-Raufai, Rotimi Akeredoul, and 17 others were said to be backing Sani Bello.

With this new development from INEC, the national convention of APC scheduled to hold on February 26 might be under uncertainty.