The Imo state chapter of the Action Peoples Party (APP) has expressed strong opposition to the planned relocation of electoral collation centres in certain parts of the state. This move, particularly affecting the Ideato North/South Federal Constituency, has raised concerns about the potential impact on the Nkwerre/Isu/Njaba/Nwangele (NINN) Federal Constituency and other electoral units. The party demands transparency and adherence to due process in any alterations to established electoral arrangements.
According to a statement signed by the state chairman of APP, Hon. Ernest Njesi, decisions affecting the electoral process of an entire constituency must not be made unilaterally or without public clarification. Such decisions have far-reaching consequences for various stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, voters, and community leaders. The party stresses that these decisions must be handled openly, lawfully, and with adequate consultation to avoid unnecessary tension.
The APP is particularly concerned about the reported justification of insecurity as the basis for relocating the Ideato collation centre. The party demands a clear explanation and verifiable evidence supporting this position from the relevant authorities. The people of Ideato North and Ideato South have longstanding relationships, traditions, and institutions that must not be subjected to unnecessary political tension.
The party also emphasizes that an ill-considered approach to electoral administration could create suspicion, mistrust, and divisions among people who have historically lived together. Imo State needs electoral institutions that unite confidence around a transparent process, rather than dividing its people. The APP calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security authorities to publicly clarify the circumstances surrounding the proposed relocation.
The APP demands that the INEC and relevant stakeholders provide verifiable information concerning any security assessment being relied upon for the action. They also call for consultation with relevant stakeholders before implementing changes that substantially affect an electoral constituency. The party emphasizes the need to ensure that no political party, candidate, or individual is given an undue advantage through administrative decisions.
Furthermore, the APP urges the authorities to respect the integrity of the electoral process and avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary tension or division among neighbouring communities. The party reaffirms its commitment to transparency, fairness, accountability, and peaceful democratic participation. They call on the people of Ideato North, Ideato South, and Nkwere, Isu, Nwangele, and Njaba (NINN) to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding.
The party encourages the people to resolve differences concerning electoral administration through lawful institutions and established democratic processes, rather than through confrontation or division. The APP's stance is aimed at promoting a peaceful and transparent electoral process in Imo State. The proposed relocation of collation centres has sparked concerns about the potential impact on the upcoming 2027 general elections in Nigeria.
Key points
- The Action Peoples Party demands transparency and adherence to due process in any alterations to established electoral arrangements in Imo State.
- The party is concerned that an ill-considered approach to electoral administration could create suspicion, mistrust, and divisions among people who have historically lived together.
- The APP calls on the INEC and security authorities to publicly clarify the circumstances surrounding the proposed relocation of collation centres.
