The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State has strongly criticized the September 28, 2024, local government election date set by the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC), deeming it lacking in credibility and proper planning. The party has called for a postponement of the election date by between 90 and 150 days to ensure adequate preparation and participation.
APC state chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, voiced his party’s concerns during a briefing, highlighting issues with the planning and execution of the election. Ejidike accused the APGA-led state government of ulterior motives and insufficient transparency in organizing the poll.
“We are committed to participating in the local government elections, but not under conditions that are tainted by poor planning and questionable motives,” Ejidike stated. He criticized ANSIEC’s handling of the process, pointing out that the initial stakeholders’ meeting had been overtaken by traditional rulers, community leaders, and religious figures under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s direction, rather than being a genuine engagement with political parties.
The APC’s legal adviser, Mr. Chukwunoso Chiwuba, further challenged the recent amendments to local government and electoral laws, enacted on August 13, 2024. Chiwuba argued that these amendments were invalid as they occurred after the election process had already begun. He contended that such changes are unconstitutional and undermine the rights of political parties and voters.
Chiwuba criticized the failure to update the voter register, which he said would disenfranchise new voters who have turned 18 since the last registration. He also accused the state electoral committee of ignoring constitutional requirements for local government elections.
The APC has vowed to collaborate with other political parties to address these issues and ensure a fair electoral process. They assert that the integrity of the election is at stake and urge ANSIEC to address these concerns to uphold democratic principles.
