Once again, the local government election in Ondo State has been rescheduled
ODIEC, the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission, has deferred the local government election initially set for February 17, extending it by an additional six months.
Dr. Igbekele Aremo, the Chairman of the State Electoral Commission, announced in Akure that the election has been rescheduled to take place on July 13.
Aremo, during a stakeholder meeting with political parties in the state, clarified that the election was not canceled but rather rescheduled. This decision was made due to the failure of most political parties to adhere to the stipulated guidelines necessary for conducting the election.
He emphasized that the postponement aligns with the provisions of existing laws governing the election guidelines. Aremo stated, "We cannot proceed with the election unless parties comply with the guidelines, submit valid nominations, and fulfill the necessary requirements such as verification of parties and their candidates, as specified by our guidelines and the relevant laws."
The chairman pointed out that some essential provisions of the election guidelines had not been met, leading to the decision to postpone the election.
He stated, "The decision aims to ensure that the election aligns with the aspirations of the electorate. Therefore, after careful consideration of the situation, the commission has decided to further reschedule the election, as outlined in the activity schedule for the elections in the 18 LGAs and 33 LCDAs of Ondo State. The revised election date for Chairmanship and Councilorship positions is now set for Saturday, 13th July 2024."
"With this adjustment to the election timetable, political parties now have the period from Monday, 13th May to Monday, 3rd June 2024 to conduct their primary elections."
As per the commission's guidelines, the deadline for submitting forms and candidate lists is set for Tuesday, 1st June 2024. Subsequently, campaigns will commence on Wednesday, 5th June 2024, concluding at midnight on Thursday, 11th July 2024.
The commission has assured its preparedness to organize elections in Ondo State that are free, fair, and credible.
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