INEC unveils timetable for Ekiti, Osun elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday finally released dates for conduct of governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.

In the timetable signed by  the Commission secretary, Mrs Augusta Ogakwu but which was made available to
journalists by INEC National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee, Prince Solomon Soyebi, the Ekiti and Osun elections would hold on  July 14th and September 22, 2018, respectively.

Shedding light on the timelines, Soyebi said the electoral body arrived at the dates in line with provisions of section 178(1)and (2) of the 1999 constitution as amended, and section 25(7) and (8) of the electoral Act,2010.

He noted that the tenure of Ekiti incumbent governor, Ayodele Fayose and his Osun state counterpart, Rauf Aregbesola  would end on Oct 15, 2018  and November 28, 2018, respectively.

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He restated the Commission earlier warning to intending aspirants and their parties that the release of dates for elections did not amount to notice for campaigns for votes. He further warned that parties which infringed  on provisions of the Electoral Act as amended  would be sanctioned.

“Anybody who deviates  from the Electoral guidelines by engaging in public campaign ahead  of the date for commencement of campaign is committing electoral offence and will be prosecuted.

“All political parties and their candidates are hereby enjoined  to cooperate with us,” Soyebi said.

According to the timetable,  INEC is expected to issue notice for the Ekiti  election on April 4, 2018, which is not later that 90 days before the election. Political campaigns would commence  on  April 15 while collection of forms by political parties for issuance to candidates would come a day after.

Political primaries and resolution of disputes arising  from such was slated for 15April-14 May, 2018.

Notice of election was fixed for 23rd June 2018 while campaign for the Osun state government house would start on June 25, 2018.  Collection of forms for the Osun election has been fixed for June 25th, while primaries and resolution of arising disputes must be conducted between June 24- July 23rd, 2018.

The timetable further disclosed that any run off election would  be held within seven days after the announcement of result in line with relevant laws.