INEC urged to deregister some political parties

Port Harcourt— Mr. Benneth Lemchi, a chieftain of All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP, in Imo, has said some political parties do not have offices and advised Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to deregister such parties that were inactive.

Lemchi said this Monday in Port Harcourt, adding that the newly-registered United Progressive Party, UPP, would promote stronger democracy.

He also said that reducing the number of political parties would enhance the efficiency and credibility of the country’s democracy.

Lemchi said: “Some of our political parties do not even have offices and membership across the country and a good number of them are mere tools being used by some of the bigger parties to achieve their selfish aims.

“INEC should deregister such parties if it really means well for our democracy.”

Lemchi, who commended INEC for its activities, appealed to the commission to engage in those things that would restore public confidence in its ability.

He said: “Nigerians are now very happy with INEC because of the manner it has conducted some governorship and national assembly elections and by-elections.

“I urge them to continue in that manner, and the only way they can sustain it is by being responsive.”

Lemchi said the registration of UPP would not be criticised if the new political party could rise up to the occasion by meeting up with the necessary requirements.

He said the constitutional essence of a political party was to contest elections based on its popularity, and expressed regret that some political parties had become mere social gatherings or clubs