In a departure from the usual political maneuvering, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have unveiled their timetables for the upcoming February 3, 2024 bye-elections.
APC’s Game Plan:
The APC, breaking the mold on Monday, shared its bye-election timetable, inked by National Organising Secretary Sulaimon Argungu. The race for Senatorial, House of Representatives, and State Assembly seats kicks off with the sale of forms from December 27, 2023, to January 2, 2024. Brace for primary elections on January 6, 2024.
APC’s financial stakes are set: Senate (N20 million), House of Representatives (N10 million), and House of Assembly (N2 million). Notably, INEC’s February 3, 2024, bye-elections stem from vacancies triggered by resignations or the demise of assembly members.
PDP’s Playbook:
Not to be outdone, the PDP dropped its timetable on Tuesday, courtesy of National Organising Secretary Umar Bature. December 28, 2023, marks the start of form sales, closing shop on January 3, 2024, followed by primaries on January 9, 2024.
PDP’s financial landscape for aspirants involves Senate (N3.5m), House of Representatives (N2.5m), and State House of Assembly (N600,000). In a nod to inclusivity, concessions for youth, females, and persons with disabilities are baked into both party plans.
Inclusivity in Focus:
Both parties display a rare show of unity in their concessions. APC and PDP grant female aspirants and persons with disabilities a waiver on nomination forms. For the younger generation, aged 25 to 40, expressions of interest are on sale, coupled with a generous 50% discount on nomination forms.
As the bye-election stage unfolds, the political landscape witnesses an atypical convergence towards inclusivity.
