Sources within INEC have revealed that the electoral body was not involved in the organization or recognition of the convention, rendering it invalid in the eyes of INEC. Earlier reports from LIB had indicated that the incumbent chairman of the party, Julius Abure, was re-elected as chairman during the Nnewi convention.
Prior to the convention, LP’s National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, had asserted that the party executive had duly informed INEC about the change in venue and date.
“No, it is holding in Anambra, Nnewi to be precise, is 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 stated.
However, according to Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties are required to give INEC at least 21 days notice of any convention, congress, conference, or meeting. This notice includes conventions or meetings convened to merge, elect members of executive committees or governing bodies, or nominate candidates.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as INEC and LP continue to navigate this situation.
