Olawepo-Hashim urges Tinubu, INEC to shift primaries to September

In Nigeria, the integrity of our electoral process is paramount, and concerns raised by figures like Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim deserve serious attention from the highest levels of government. The call to shift party primaries to September, aligning with the Electoral Act 2026, is not merely a procedural suggestion but a crucial step towards safeguarding our nascent democracy.

“

The current timetable constrains the latitude of political parties to conduct their primaries. There is a need to allow sufficient time, as envisaged by law, for parties to organise credible and participatory primaries.

The current rush towards early primaries, as highlighted by Olawepo-Hashim, risks stifling internal party democracy. This can lead to a situation where candidates are imposed rather than chosen through genuine participation, ultimately weakening the foundation of our representative government. The potential for disputes and disenfranchisement is a real threat that could erode public trust in the entire electoral system, a trust painstakingly built through decades of struggle against military rule.

From our perspective at The Punch, this issue goes beyond mere scheduling. It touches upon the very essence of political pluralism and the need for a level playing field. Allowing adequate time for credible and participatory primaries is essential to ensure that the candidates who emerge are truly representative of the people's will. This adjustment, as Olawepo-Hashim suggests, would demonstrate a commitment to due process and help avert avoidable political crises, contributing to national cohesion and stability.

“

The current rush toward early primaries could undermine internal party democracy and weaken the credibility of the 2027 general elections.

It is vital that President Tinubu heeds this call. The recommendations for electoral reforms and strengthening confidence in our institutions are not just for the benefit of political parties, but for the health of Nigeria's democracy as a whole. A transparent and inclusive primary process is a cornerstone of credible elections, and adjusting the timetable is a practical measure to achieve this.

“

Allowing political parties adequate time to conduct primaries would not only reduce tensions but also deepen internal democracy and improve the quality of candidates that emerge for elective offices.