The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Akwa Ibom State, Prof. Anugbum Onuoha, has cautioned political parties to conduct their activities strictly within the provisions of the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines to ensure the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
He issued the warning during his maiden meeting with chairmen and secretaries of 22 political parties held at the INEC office in Uyo, where he emphasized the critical role of political parties in strengthening democratic governance.
Prof. Onuoha noted that political parties remain the primary vehicle for democratic participation, stressing that their activities significantly influence the credibility of elections.
“Your role includes monitoring, mobilising citizens, fielding candidates and educating your members; this directly impacts on the credibility and usefulness of our elections,” he said.
He reiterated the commitment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Akwa Ibom State to transparency and the strict application of electoral laws, regulations and guidelines.
“Let me clearly state that INEC in Akwa Ibom is committed to ensuring transparency as seen in the application of the Electoral Act as well as our regulations and guidelines,” he said.
“We do not have a candidate in this election. Our only interest is to ensure that every vote counts. We provide a level playing field to all registered political parties. Any complaint or observation should be directed through appropriate channels or to my office.”
The REC urged political parties to conduct their primaries in line with established rules, warning against violence and the spread of misinformation during the electioneering period.
“Conduct your primaries transparently, submit nomination lists on time, ensure your agents are screened and accredited,” he said.
He further called on political actors to help reduce political tension in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging cooperation among stakeholders to build public trust in the electoral process.
“Let us work together to reduce tension and build public trust and confidence,” he added.
Responding on behalf of the political parties, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) in the state, Blessing Udoh, assured INEC of the readiness of all parties to cooperate and ensure peaceful conduct throughout the electoral process.
He said political parties would ensure discipline and compliance with electoral guidelines during the build-up to the elections.
Political parties present at the meeting included the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Action Democratic Party (ADP), Accord Party, African Action Alliance (AA), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and several others.
