UPN challenges INEC over registration

UPN challenges INEC over registration

THE Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) in Osun State has challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to defend itself on its alleged connivance with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to stall its registration.
The UPN wondered why INEC had been “tardy” in concluding its registration when the electoral body was aware that it wished to contest the 2014 gubernatorial election.
The party threw the challenge in a statement by its Public Relations Officer in the state, Friday Okewu.
It alleged that at a recent gathering of top hierarchy of APC in the state, the issue of UPN registration was discussed.
“The main thrust of the meeting was the avowed decision to block the registration of the UPN or at least delay same to prevent both Osun and Ekiti states from using the platform for the 2014 election.
“To date, the only formidable opposition to APC in Osun State is UPN, having concluded plans to frustrate PDP by whatever means in the state.
“In accordance with Section 78 (4) of the Electoral Law, we wonder why INEC has been tardy in concluding the registration of our party knowing full well that the party wishes to contest the 2014 gubernatorial election.
“We, therefore, request INEC to speak up on the alleged connivance with the APC to stall the registration. This is because the news going round in Osun State is that the commission has been bought,” the statement said.