By: Mercy Peter
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Wednesday called for applications from interested oberver groups for 3rd February 2024 bye-elections/rerun electios.
According to INEC, bye-election/re-run-elections are expected to be held across two senatorial districts, four federal constituencies, and three state constituencies spanning nine states of the federation simultaneously on 3rd February 2024.
This was contained in the Commission’s invitation announcing the opening of registration portal for oberver groups, titled ” Request for application to serve as observer groups for bye-elextions/re-run elections 3rd February 2024
The invitation which was signed by Mrs. Hauwa Habib
Ag. Director, (EPM) also noted that application closes 17th January 2024.
The Commission warned all interested observers against submiting falsified documents, saying they risk automatic disqualification.
The invitation reads in part: “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) hereby invites registered Civil Society
Organization (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organization (NGOs) as well as other interested bye-elections/run-electionsstakeholders whose work is on scheduled democracy, governance to hold and on election 3rd February,and who wish 2024 to observe to visitthe
(http://observergroups.inecnigeria.org) and complete the application form.
” This is without prejudice to any previous correspondence with the Commission. Completion of the prescribed application form (EC14A(l)) remains the only accepted means of application.
“Observer groups should particularly note that all other information including legal status (registration with CAC), evidence of registration with the Civil Society Desk at INEC-Headquarters, evidence of registration previous election observation with INEC (if any), acknowledgment of submission of reports of observation (if any) should accompany the application.
“Any falsification of documents in the submissions will lead to automatic disqualification and possible prosecution.
“The deadline for submission of application is 17th January, 2024. The list of successful observer groups approved for accreditation will subsequently be published on the Commission’s website and EPM Observer’s WhatsApp platform.
“Please be guided accordingly.”
