The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed July 16, 2022 for the conduct of the Osun State governorship election.
This is contained in the “Timetable and Schedule of Activities for Osun State Governorship Election” dated 10 June 2021 and signed by INEC Secretary, Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony.
The timetable outlined the schedule of activities in the build up to the election, starting from the publishing of the Notice of Election on February 15, 2022.
“The tenure of the Governor of Osun State will expire on the 26th November 2022. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 178 (1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and Section 25 (7) and (8) of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended), the earliest date for the Election into the office of the Governor, Osun State, shall be the 28 June, 2022 and the latest date for the Election shall be 27 October, 2022.”
“By virtue of the provisions of Section 178 (2) of the Constitution and Section 25 (8) of the Electoral Act, Election into the office of a. State Governor shall hold not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office. The Commission is by virtue of Section 30 (1) of the Electoral Act, expected to issue Notice of the Election not later than 90 days before the date of the Election.
“This is in exercise of the powers conferred on INEC by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1959 (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) and of all other powers enabling it in that behalf,” the notice read in parts.
The notice also listed March 25, 2022 as the date for the publication of Personal particulars (EC9) and 8 April as the last day for the withdrawal/replacement of candidates by political parties.
While it listed 16 April as the last day for the submission of nomination forms (EC13B) by political parties; the notice also stated 17 April as the date for the commencement of campaigns by parties.