Even with the sack of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s leadership, it is not yet uhuru for the embattled ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected an invitation to be at party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting slated for 17th of March, pointing out that the letter was not signed by the party’s chairman and secretary.
In a letter dated 9th March 2022, in response to APC’s letter of invitation, the INEC Secretary, Rose Anaran-Anthony, observed that the APC letter of invitation was not signed by the national chairman and national secretary of the Caretaker/ Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) contrary to the provisions of Article 1.1.3. of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines of Political Party Operations (2018).
INEC adds: “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 the 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 assurances of the Commission’s warm regards,” the INEC letter concluded.
Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari ordered the sack of Buni and National Secretary, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, according to Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el Rufai.
A new acting national secretary, Prof.Tahir Mamman, was named to replace Akpanudoedehe.