Hashim calls on Tinubu and INEC to adhere to election laws and permit party primaries in September

Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate and energy entrepreneur, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step in and ensure that Nigeria's electoral process allows political parties to hold their primaries in September, as stipulated in the Electoral Act 2026.

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This call to action was made in an open letter to the President, in which Hashim voiced concerns that the current electoral timetable is curtailing the timeframe for party primaries, potentially undermining the integrity of the 2027 general elections and weakening internal democracy.

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Hashim pointed out that Section 29(1) of the amended Electoral Act provides political parties with the flexibility to conduct their primaries up to mid-September, emphasizing that adhering to this timeline would foster transparency, inclusiveness, and fairness.

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According to Hashim, the existing timetable restricts the ability of political parties to conduct their primaries, highlighting the need for sufficient time to organize credible and participatory primaries, as envisioned by law.

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Hashim warned that hastening the process could lead to internal party disputes, disenfranchise aspirants, and erode public trust in the electoral system, ultimately threatening Nigeria's democratic stability.

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He also cautioned against the growing risk of a non-competitive political environment, emphasizing the importance of protecting political pluralism to sustain the nation's democratic gains, which were built on sacrifices made during the struggle against military rule.

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Hashim advocated for reforms to bolster electoral credibility, including a review of contentious provisions in the Electoral Act and measures to ensure a level playing field for all political actors.

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Furthermore, Hashim appealed to the President to advise the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, to step aside and allow for the reconstitution of a more credible electoral commission to oversee forthcoming elections.

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Hashim stressed that confidence in electoral institutions is crucial for peaceful and credible elections, adding that allowing adequate time for party primaries would reduce political tensions and improve the quality of candidates emerging for elective offices.

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By aligning the timetable with the Electoral Act, Hashim believes that the President can demonstrate a commitment to due process and help prevent avoidable disputes ahead of the polls.

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Hashim expressed hope that the President would consider his recommendations in the interest of political stability and national cohesion, emphasizing the importance of credible and inclusive primaries in strengthening Nigeria's democracy.