Olawepo-Hashim Calls for Shift in Primaries Timetable

Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate and energy entrepreneur, has written an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, advocating for a shift in the timetable for political party primaries to September.

He warns that the current rush towards early primaries could undermine internal party democracy and weaken the credibility of the 2027 general elections. Olawepo-Hashim references Section 29(1) of the amended Electoral Act, which allows for a broader window for parties to conduct primaries in mid-September.

He argues that adhering to this timeline would enhance transparency and inclusivity in the electoral process. The former candidate expresses concern that a compressed primary election process could lead to disputes within parties and disenfranchise aspirants, ultimately diminishing public confidence in the electoral system.

He calls for reforms to strengthen electoral credibility and urges INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan to allow for a reconstitution of a more credible electoral commission to oversee upcoming elections.