Despite announcing September 21, 2024, as the date for the conduct of local government election in Imo State, there are concerns that the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) is yet to officially communicate in writing the date of the polls to all the political parties in the State.
This issue was the bone of contention at a meeting of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) held in Owerri last week.
Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Imo State, Hon John Iwuala, expressed concern over the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission’s (ISIEC) failure to issue official written notice to political parties regarding the upcoming Local Government elections.
Speaking at the Imo State chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) meeting, Iwuala stressed that the electoral law mandates ISIEC to notify political parties in writing, but this has not been done.
He described the situation as “unacceptable” and “a clear violation of the electoral law”.
He warned that the failure to issue official notice could lead to litigation and chaos in the electoral process.
Iwuala emphasized that APGA and other political parties are ready for the election but want a free and fair process.
He, however, stated that APGA would not participate in the election until official notice is received from ISIEC.
The IPAC Chairman, Ichie Levi Ekeh, commended Iwuala for his courage in speaking out against ISIEC’s failure.
Ekeh assured that IPAC would support APGA’s stance and work towards ensuring a credible election.
Labour Party Chairman, Bar Calistus Ihejiagwa, also expressed support for Iwuala’s position, stressing the need for transparency in the electoral process.
The IPAC Secretary, Dr. Isaac Iwuanyanwu, noted that the bill seeking to abolish state electoral commissions has not yet been passed by the National Assembly.
The meeting ended with a resolution to issue a public statement cautioning ISIEC and the government on the need for a free and fair election.
IPAC emphasized that any attempt to truncate the electoral process could lead to revolt by the masses.
The body urged ISIEC to immediately issue the official notice to political parties to avoid any further controversy.
