APC: INEC refuses ‘Letter of Invitation’ from NEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has refused to accept a letter of invitation from the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for an emergency meeting.
INEC’s response, dated March 9, signed by its Secretary, Rose Anthony, titled, “Re: Invitation to the Emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee,” was addressed to the National Chairman, APC Caretaker, and Extra-ordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC).
The commission drew the attention of the CECPC to the fact that the letter of invitation was not signed by Gov. Mai Mala Buni, National Chairman, CECPC, and the Secretary, Sen. John Akpanudoedehe.
It said this was contrary to the provision of Article 1.1.3 of the commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties Operations (2018).
INEC also reminded those who wrote and signed the letter of the provision in Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2022; stating that the section required ‘at least 21 days’ notice of any convention, congress, conference, or meeting convened for merger and electing members of its executive committees, other governing bodies or nominating candidates for any elective office.
It urged the APC to note the critical issues raised for compliance.
INEC’s letter read: “Please refer to your letter Ref.APC/NHDQ/INEC/019/022/32, dated March 8, 2022.
“The commission draws your attention to the fact that the national chairman and national secretary of the CECPC did not sign the notice for the meeting.
“This is contrary to the provision of Article 1.1.3 of the commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties Operations (2018).
“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 ‘merger.’
“In electing members of its executive committees, other governing bodies or nominating candidates for any elective office; while hoping these issues are noted for compliance, please accept the assurance of the commission’s warm regards,” it said.
NAN/Suzan O.
