The Forum of Associations Seeking Registration as Political Parties (FASRAPP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of being “an untrustworthy institution” after it failed to provide official communication explaining the rejection of 157 political associations.
In a statement released after a delegation led by its Chairman, Chief Barr. John Nwobodo, visited INEC headquarters in Abuja, the group expressed deep disappointment that the Commission was yet to issue letters of disapproval to affected associations.
According to FASRAPP, INEC officials admitted during the visit that the letters had not been prepared, but appealed for patience, assuring that the documents would be ready soon and that the associations would be invited to collect them.
“This nonchalant and lackadaisical attitude of INEC portrays it as an untrustworthy institution,” the Forum stated, recalling that INEC had publicly promised to communicate its decision within 24 hours of its meeting last Thursday. “Next 24 hours meant Friday. It is 120 hours today, yet no single communication has been sent to any political association.”
FASRAPP condemned the delay, arguing that the reasons for disapproval ought to have been disclosed alongside the press release announcing the rejection.
The Forum has now issued INEC an ultimatum, demanding that it formally communicate the reasons for rejecting the 157 applications not later than Thursday, September 18, or face legal action.
The controversy comes amid rising concerns over transparency in the country’s electoral processes, with political groups and civil society organizations urging INEC to uphold fairness and accountability in its dealings.
