0
0
I wish to raise serious concerns over the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which, in my view, remains unlawful, unworkable, and insensitive to Nigeriaโs political and religious realities.
The current electoral schedule is already creating avoidable tension within the political system and has the potential to destabilise party structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The tight calendar does not provide political parties with adequate time to properly conduct internal primaries and other democratic processes. This unnecessary pressure is contributing to growing internal conflicts across the political landscape.
I had earlier written an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging appropriate guidance to ensure that INEC strictly complies with the provisions of the Electoral Act. Unfortunately, I am yet to receive any response to that appeal.
It is also deeply concerning that INEC has scheduled politically intensive activities, including party primaries, around sensitive religious periods such as Hajj and Ileya (Eid al-Adha). These periods already come with significant logistical, security, and mobility challenges. Combining them with highly competitive political contests is unreasonable and capable of creating avoidable disruptions.
Party primaries are themselves politically sensitive exercises that often generate tension and security concerns. They require adequate spacing, proper planning, and a stable environment. Compressing both religious and political activities in this manner unnecessarily increases national risk and places additional strain on an already fragile political space.
It is important to note that the Electoral Act already provides sufficient timelines for political parties to conclude their nomination processes. Section 29(1) clearly states that parties are required to submit nominations not later than 120 days before elections, effectively allowing parties up to mid-September to complete their primaries and nominations.
The question therefore is: why adopt a timetable that appears to circumvent the clear provisions and spirit of the law?
INEC must urgently review and adjust this timetable in line with the Electoral Act.
Failure to do so risks deepening political tensions, undermining democratic processes, and eroding public confidence in the electoral system ahead of the 2027 elections.
#INEC
#ElectoralAct
#PoliticalParties
#2027Elections.
SB E-news.
Related posts:
AFRICAN DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS (ADC) SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES FOR THE 2026 NATIONWIDE CONGRESSES AND NATI...
The Dangerous Escalation Of Blasphemy Accusations In Northern Nigeria: A Gombe Pastor Under Threat A...
Headlines from Nigeriaโs Major Newspapers 18 December 2024 www.sbenews.com.ng www.efficiency.com.ng
About the Author
