The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set a deadline of May 20, 2024, for political parties to submit their lists of gubernatorial candidates for the forthcoming election in Ondo State.
This directive was issued during a crucial gathering at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, which brought together chairpersons and senior officials from various political parties.
Addressing the party representatives, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, underscored the significance of adhering to this deadline.
“I urge all political parties to finalize their candidates and submit their names by the stipulated deadline of May 20th, when our portal will close,” he emphasized.
This session, designated as the second quarterly meeting of 2024, assumes pivotal importance in the lead-up to the state elections, including the gubernatorial race in Edo State slated for September.
INEC has already concluded and published the roster of candidates and their running mates for the Edo election.
Among the notable attendees were the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, Julius Abure of the Labour Party (LP), and Shehu Gabam of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Professor Yakubu reiterated the necessity of strict adherence to electoral guidelines. “It is imperative that all participating parties fully comply with the electoral guidelines to ensure a smooth and transparent election process,” he stressed.
With the deadline drawing near, political parties are expected to intensify their preparations to meet INEC’s stipulations, setting the stage for what anticipates being a fiercely contested election.
