By Our Reporter
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has slated Monday, June 22, 2020 for its governorship primary in Edo State and Monday, July 20, 2020 for the primary in Ondo State.
APC’s National Organising Secretary, Emma Ibediro, announced the development Tuesday in Abuja.
“Each aspirant is expected to pay a cumulative cost of N22.5 million for nomination and expression of interest forms.
“The sale of forms will begin on May 20th and end on July 2nd, 2020. June 3rd is the last day for the submission of the forms with all relevant documents.
“There is however no separate charge for running mates, while female and physically challenged aspirants will enjoy a 50 per cent rebate on all charges,” he said.
The two states have incumbent governors seeking reelection.
Meanwhile, the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC, Festus Okoye, said the umpire would stick to its previously released schedule for the election vote in both states, as well as the nine outstanding bye-elections across the country.
“The Commission deliberated extensively on a Policy Framework that will guide its operations, activities and engagements with critical stakeholders in view of the COVID-19 Pandemic and its impact on the electoral process in Nigeria. Based on this, the Commission will on Thursday 21st May 2020 issue a Policy Framework for engagement with stakeholders, the conduct of the two ends of tenure governorship elections, outstanding bye-elections and future electoral activities.
“The Commission reiterated its commitment to conduct the Edo and Ondo governorship elections on 19th September and 10th October 2020 as contained in the Timetable and Schedule of Activities released on 6th February 2020.
“We reassure Nigerians of our resolve and determination to provide the requisite guidance, innovation and leadership in conducting elections in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Commission is committed to fulfilling its constitutional responsibility of conducting elections but without jeopardizing the health and wellbeing of citizens, stakeholders or its valued staff.
“The Commission will accelerate consultations and engagements with political parties, civil society organizations, security agencies and health authorities as soon as its Policy Framework is finalized this week. “We again urge everyone to remain safe and healthy by complying with all the guidelines and protocols issued by the health authorities”, he said
