The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Labour Party has announced the guidelines for the Congress/Primaries to elect candidates for the highly anticipated Edo State gubernatorial election.
The decisions, which were reached during a meeting chaired by Barrister Julius Abure, include critical provisions for the electoral process.
They include:
Forms for All Aspirants: The NWC has approved the sale of forms to every interested aspirant from the state who is a Nigerian, indigene, or resident in Edo.
Expression of Interest and Nomination Fees: Aspirants will be required to pay a fee of Five Million Naira (N5 million) for the Expression of Interest form, while the Nomination Form will cost Twenty-Five Million Naira (N25 million).
Sales and Submission Dates: The sale and submission of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms will take place between January 25 and February 11, 2023. Female aspirants are exempted from paying for the Expression of Interest Form.
Primary Election Format: The NWC has approved an Indirect Primary election involving Ward and Local Government congresses to elect the flag bearer.
Key Dates: Screening of aspirants is scheduled for February 14, the primary election will be held on February 22, and the resolution of disputes or appeals arising from the primaries will be addressed on February 23.
Vote of Confidence and Loyalty Pledge: The NWC passed a Vote of Confidence on its National Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, for effective leadership. The committee pledged loyalty to the party’s national leader and presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The Labour Party appreciated the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) verification and compliance with rules.
The NWC also noted the party’s achievements in the recent general election but expressed regret over seat losses through the courts.
The party stated that it aims to secure additional seats in the upcoming rerun elections.
