The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State has expressed strong opposition to the scheduled September 28, 2024, local government election date set by the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC). The party has criticized the timeline, arguing that it lacks proper planning, credibility, and adherence to due process.
Chief Basil Ejidike, the APC state chairman, conveyed the party’s stance during a press briefing. He asserted that the APC is prepared to participate in the local government elections but only if they are conducted transparently. He accused the current administration, led by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), of manipulating the electoral process to serve its interests.
“We are ready to support any process that aims to democratize the local government councils, but the current approach lacks the minimum standards of credibility and transparency,” Ejidike stated. He further urged ANSIEC to postpone the election date by 90 to 150 days to allow political parties ample time to prepare and participate fully.
Ejidike criticized a recent stakeholders’ meeting organized by ANSIEC, claiming it was dominated by traditional rulers and religious leaders under the influence of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, rather than being a genuine platform for political parties to engage.
The APC also raised concerns over the lack of consultations with political parties and security agencies, which it views as essential for ensuring a free, fair, and credible election. The party’s legal adviser, Mr. Chukwunoso Chiwuba, added that amendments to local government and electoral laws made on August 13, 2024, were invalid, arguing that they contravened the Constitution since the electoral process had already begun.
Chiwuba emphasized that any election conducted without updating the voter register would disenfranchise many eligible voters, particularly those who have reached voting age since the last election. He warned that the amended laws could not override the rights and functions of political parties as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution.
The APC has indicated its willingness to collaborate with other political parties to challenge what it sees as a flawed electoral process. The party insists that without proper consultations and credible planning, the upcoming local government elections in Anambra State cannot be considered legitimate.
