Osun Guber : Parties vow to challenge INEC disqualification
From Michael Ofulue,Osogbo
Following the disqualification of three political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from participating in July 16, Governorship election in Osun State, reactions have continued to trail the development from the affected political parties.
Recall that the INEC Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye in a statement said the Commission disqualified the three political parties for not meeting with the provisions of the guidelines and constitution of the country.
Speaking with our correspondent, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance ( APGA) Pastor Olatunji Popoola said the party will challenge INEC decision in court.
” I think what they should have asked us to do was replacement of our candidate instead of outright disqualification.
” It was not the sole candidate that was disqualified, it is the party that was disqualified. They should have just asked us to replace the Deputy Governorship candidate. We will go to court.
” I have appeal to all the members of the party in the State and in the entire nation to remain calm. There is no cause for alarm. Our party will still be listed in the Osun gubernatorial election. There is no need for anyone to be under tension at all.” he stated
Also, the State Chairman of the Action Alliance( AA) in the State, Mr Adetunji Olubunmi said it was not a surprise as the party has been expecting such from INEC.
” What we need to do now is to rectify what has happened and drastic step is already being taken. I can assure you that before the final list comes out we must have done the needful.
” It is not a permanent disqualification because it is not an issue that concerns the INEC. It is an issue within our party.
We can assure you that by the time the list finally comes out, our party will be included and we shall participate in the coming election.
“Actually the INEC cannot refuse to grant our request because we have started taking steps since we discovered what had happened.
On his part,the National Deputy Chairman (South West) of National Conscience Party (NCP) ,Waheed Lawal, accused INEC of using technicality to disqualified political parties
He said the commission should have invited the party for correction if there was error observed in document submitted by it, adding all political parties must be given a level playing ground to participate in the election.