The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has expressed its readiness to participate in the September 21 local government election in Imo State.
In an exclusive interview with INNONEWS In Owerri, APGA State Chairman, John Iwuala stated that “Even if the election is held today, APGA is ready for the polls.”
Iwuala’s assertion comes amidst controversy surrounding the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC), which has been criticized by the Inter Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) for demanding fees from Chairmanship and Councillorship candidates without consulting the leadership of various political parties.
Reacting to claims that ISIEC ignored political parties and worked directly with the candidates, Iwuala said, “Since our candidates choose to work with ISIEC directly, there is nothing as a party we could do.
“What is key to us is that we are ready for the Saturday local government election.”he stated.
ISIEC has been accused of demanding N51,000 from Councillorship candidates and N200,000 from Chairmanship candidates, sparking concerns from opposition parties in the State.
Iwuala however reiterated that irrespective of the challenges, APGA’s focus is on the election.
“Our Chairmanship and Councillorship candidates are ready for the polls.”he declared.
He called on ISIEC to conduct a free, fair, transparent and credible local government election on Saturday