The Labour Party (LP) National Convention, which took place in Nnewi, Anambra state, on Wednesday, March 27, has been denounced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC sources claim that since the electoral body was not present at the convention, it is unable to recognize it. Julius Abure, the party’s beleaguered chairman, was re-elected during the Nnewi conference, according to prior reports from LIB.
Speaking to newsmen before the convention, the LP National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, claimed the party executive had duly informed INEC about the change in venue and date.
“No, it is holding in Anambra. Nnewi to be precise, not Umuahia in Abia State again. In fact, Umuahia was not even the first venue we chose. Benin was the first choice before we changed to Umuahia and now Nnewi. So, we are at liberty to pick any venue of our choice. We only need to inform INEC about the change in venue and the time” Edun said.
Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 states that political parties shall give INEC at least 21 days’ notice of convention, congress, conference or meeting. This includes the convention or meeting convened for the purpose of “merger” and electing members of its executive committees, and other governing bodies or nominating candidates.
