Fresh headache for APC as INEC rejects NEC meeting notice

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the All Progressives Congress (APC) notice for its national executive committee (NEC) meeting.

On Thursday, Abubakar Sani Bello, acting chairman of the APC national caretaker committee, announced that the party’s NEC will be held on March 17.

Bello has been in charge of the party following the ouster of Mai Mala Buni, Yobe state governor.

Buni was booted out of office after his plan to scuttle the party’s convention came to light.

In a letter dated March 9 and addressed to the “national chairman”, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, INEC secretary, said notice for the NEC meeting was not signed by Buni and John Akpanudoedehe, national secretary.

“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),” she said.

“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 purpose 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 commissions’ warm regards.”