The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially distanced itself from the Labour Party’s (LP) National Convention held in Anambra, stating that the event was not under its supervision. Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, confirmed this development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday.
While Oyekanmi refrained from elaborating on the reasons behind INEC’s non-participation, the Labour Party had previously relocated the convention from Umuahia in Abia to Nnewi in Anambra State. Mr. Kehinde Edun, the LP National Legal Adviser, assured that the electoral body was properly notified of the venue change, stating, “We have the freedom to choose our convention location. Our responsibility is to inform INEC about any changes in venue and timing,” Edun explained.
According to Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, political parties are required to give INEC a minimum of 21 days’ notice prior to holding conventions or meetings for purposes such as mergers or electing executive committee members.
