The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected Governor Abubakar Bello as acting chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reacting to a letter of invitation to an emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of APC, the electoral body also said that it was not aware of a leadership change in the ruling party.
According to some sources, Governor Bello, upon resumption as acting chairman of APC CECPC, wrote a letter dated 9 March 2022 to INEC, informing the electoral body of the change of leadership at the party.
The Niger state governor introduced himself as acting chairman while Professor Tahir Mamman was introduced as the acting national secretary.
The letter addressed to INEC was duly signed by both Governor Bello as acting chairman and Prof. Mamman as acting national secretary.
Reacting to the change of leadership at the APC, INEC detailed the procedure according to its regulations and guidelines.
In a letter also dated 9 March and signed by Rose Oriaran-Anthony, the Secretary to the Commission, INEC said, “The Commission draws your attention to the fact that the notice for the meeting was not signed by the national chairman and national secretary of the CECPC contrary to the provision of the Article 1.1.3 of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for political party operations (2018).
“Furthermore, the APC is reminded of the provision in Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 which requires “at least 21 days” notice of any convention, congress, conference, or meeting convened for the purposes of “merger” and electing members of its executive committees, other governing bodies or nominating candidates for any elective offices.”
“While hoping these issues are noted for compliance, please accept the assurance of the Commission’s warm regards,” the statement said.
