Development Partners Urge INEC to Uphold Electoral Laws

Development partners have called on Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to adhere strictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act concerning candidate substitutions for the forthcoming general elections. Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that these partners are working closely with INEC to enhance electoral reform and build capacity for transparency.

They stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of the primary election process and warned against external political pressures that could compromise the electoral process. The partners highlighted the need for INEC to enforce the law impartially and without fear or favor, particularly in light of the All Progressives Congress (APC) submitting a revised list of National Assembly candidates.

Critics, including legal practitioners, argue that the substitutions contravene Section 33 of the Electoral Act, which permits changes only in cases of death or voluntary withdrawal. The partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting INEC in delivering credible elections while ensuring compliance with legal standards.