The Borno State Independent Electoral Commission on Friday responded to the withdrawal of the Peoples Democratic Party from the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, December 13, saying participation in the polls is optional for political parties. The reaction came in Maiduguri during a press briefing addressed by the commission’s chairman, Tahir Shettima.
The commission spoke after the PDP announced its decision to stay away from the elections, blaming its action on lack of confidence in the electoral body and the cost of expression of interest and nomination forms. The party said the decision was taken during a State Executive Committee meeting held in the state capital.
Shettima explained that the electoral commission acted within the law and did not have the power to force any party to take part in the exercise. He said the commission’s duty was to conduct the election for parties that chose to participate, adding that it followed laid-down rules and legal guidelines in carrying out its responsibilities.
He stated that the fees charged for nomination forms were not fixed without consultation, noting that discussions were held with political parties before the amounts were agreed upon. According to him, the commission acted within its authority in setting the fees.
The BOSIEC chairman also disclosed that six political parties have confirmed their participation in the polls. He described the cost of the chairmanship nomination form as fair when compared with what is charged in other states.
Shettima assured residents of Borno State that all preparations for the local government elections had been completed and that the commission was ready to conduct the polls as scheduled.