By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Independent National Electoral commission (INEC) has given Political parties deadline for submission of nomination forms via dedicated online portal ahead of Edo State gubernatorial elections.

The commission said as provided by the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the forthcoming off-cycle Edo State Governorship election, the deadline for the conduct of primaries by political parties expired on 24^thFebruary 2024.

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by INEC National commissioner and Chairman, information and voter Education committee, Sam Olumekun.

Olumekun, stated that the Commission has earmarked a period of 20 days for Political parties to upload the Personal Particulars (Form EC9) and Names/List of Nominated candidates (Form EC9B) of their candidates to the portal which will open at 9.00am on Monday 4^thMarch 2024 and automatically shut down at 6.00pm on Sunday 24^thMarch 2024.

According to the statement, Code to the portal will be available for collection by the National Chairmen of political parties from today March 1, 2024.

The statement read In part” To help political parties to ensure seamless nominations, the Commission is once again organising a refresher training for two Liason Officers per party. The training commences today Friday 1^stMarch 2024 and ends on Monday 4^thMarch 2024. The Venue is the Media Centre at the INEC Headquarters in Abuja.

“The Media Centre will also serve as the Help Desk during the period of nomination of candidates in case any political party needs assistance.

“The Commission wishes to draw the attention of Political parties that 20 days are enough to upload the nomination forms of only two candidates per party (Governorship candidate and running mate). Therefore, there is no reason to request for extension of time and none will be granted beyond Sunday 24^thMarch 2024.Political parties should ensure strict compliance with the timelines.

•INEC National commissioner and Chairman, information and voter Education committee, Sam Olumekun.