The Hope Democratic Party (HDP) has called for the immediate cancellation of the November 11 Imo governorship election, citing the alleged omission of its party’s logo and governorship candidate’s name from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) ballot paper.
John Chinedu, the State Publicity Secretary of HDP, expressed the party’s dismay during a press briefing in Owerri.
He emphasized that the exclusion contravened a court order obtained by HDP, compelling INEC to allow their active participation in the November 11th, 2023 Governorship Election in Imo State.
Chinedu stated, “Our candidates’ affidavits sworn in the High Court were submitted, including the INEC nomination forms, duly in line with the INEC timetable and electoral guidelines.
“It is very disheartening to see our validly nominated Governorship and deputy Governorship candidate’s name being excluded unlawfully.” he said
He explained that HDP executives, backed by a team of lawyers, are preparing legal action to challenge the election at the tribunal, aiming to compel INEC to include HDP and its candidate in a fresh Governorship election.
He pointed out that despite the setback, they remain optimistic about winning the Imo Governorship seat in a fair and inclusive electoral process.
Chinedu concluded, “INEC committed the highest level of unlawful exclusion in Nigeria by excluding Hope Democratic Party and her Governorship Candidate from the just concluded Imo Governorship Election.”
“The party calls on its supporters to remain law-abiding as they pursue lawful and legal means to address the alleged infringement.