The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, have reacted to the withdrawal of the withdrawal of the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN) presidential candidate, Oby Ezekwesili from the presidential election.
The INEC said it is too late for any candidate to withdraw from contesting any position in the forthcoming election.
In a statement by Rotimi Oyekanmi, the chief press secretary to the INEC chairman, November 17 was the last date for withdrawal from any elective position.
He said “It is impossible for any presidential candidate to withdraw from the race now. According to the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2019 General Elections, the last day for withdrawal by candidates or replacement of withdrawn candidates by political parties was 17th November, 2018 for Presidential and National Assembly Elections.
“The deadline for Ezekwesili or any candidate in that category to withdraw or be replaced has passed.”
“A candidate may withdraw his candidature by notice in writing signed by him and delivered by himself to the political party that nominated him for the election and the political party shall convey such withdrawal to the Commission not later than 45 days to the election.”
It will be recalled that Oby Ezekwesili had within the week announced her withdrawal from the presidential race.
