OWERRI — The Forum of Political Parties State Chairmen in Imo State has vehemently rejected the proposed September 26, 2026 local government council elections announced by the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC), describing the sudden two-week notice as an illegal “movie script” and an electoral crime.
In a blistering statement responding to a press release signed by ISIEC Chairman Chief Charles Ejiogu, the forum accused the electoral body of attempting to stage a coronation for 27 LGA Chairmen and 305 Ward Councillors without issuing an election timetable or mandatory statutory notice to political entities across the state.
“Height of Political Madness”: Key Objections Raised
The opposition leadership dismissed ISIEC’s claim that the announcement stems from a “360 days’ Notice of Election” issued in September 2025 under Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, alleging that the commission backdated documents to fabricate compliance.
Main grounds of opposition include:
- Absence of Statutory Notice & Timetable: The forum argued that springing an election on political parties within a tight two-week window violates fundamental electoral guidelines, leaving no time for party primaries, candidate nomination, or campaigns.
- Allegations of Backdated Memos: Party leaders accused ISIEC officials of fabricating a pre-existing election notice to cover up what they termed an “unannounced jamboree.”
- Threat of Legal Action & Boycott: Participating political parties declared that no credible platform will validate the exercise. Instead, they pledged to institute individual court actions to quash the process and seek criminal prosecution against ISIEC officials.
Demand for Total Nullification
Labeling the planned poll an illegal exercise reminiscent of “an Ugandan movie staged in the days of Idi Amin,” the Forum asserted that any candidates produced through the planned September 26 exercise will hold null and void mandates.
The political parties called on judicial bodies, civil society, and electoral oversight organizations to intervene immediately to halt the process and enforce strict adherence to democratic standards in Imo State.
