A former presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that political party primaries are conducted in September, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
In an open letter addressed to the President, Olawepo-Hashim cautioned against moves to hold primaries earlier than предусмотрено by law, warning that such actions could undermine internal party democracy and weaken the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
He referenced Section 29(1) of the amended Electoral Act, noting that it provides sufficient time for political parties to organise their primaries up to mid-September. According to him, adhering strictly to this legal framework would promote transparency, inclusiveness, and fairness in the electoral process.
Olawepo-Hashim argued that the current timetable limits the flexibility of political parties, reducing their ability to conduct credible and participatory primaries that reflect the true will of party members. He added that compressing the process could trigger internal disputes, sideline aspirants, and erode public confidence in the system.
The former candidate also warned that any move capable of creating a non-competitive electoral environment poses serious risks to Nigeria’s democratic stability and long-term political development.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, he recalled the sacrifices made during the struggle against military rule, stressing the need to safeguard democratic gains through political pluralism and strict adherence to due process.
In addition, he called on President Tinubu to champion reforms aimed at strengthening electoral credibility. These include reviewing contentious aspects of the Electoral Act and ensuring a level playing field for all political actors.
Olawepo-Hashim further urged the President to advise the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, to step aside to allow for the reconstitution of what he described as a more credible electoral body ahead of upcoming elections.
He maintained that allowing sufficient time for party primaries would reduce political tensions, deepen internal democracy, and improve the quality of candidates, expressing optimism that the President would act in the interest of national unity and credible elections.