The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it plans to open its online portal for political parties to upload the details of their nominated candidates for the Edo governorship election on March 4.

INEC said this in a statement issued by its national commissioner and chairman of the information and voter education committee, Sam Olumekun, on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Olumekun said that following the February 24 deadline for the conduct of primaries for the election, INEC had earmarked 20 days for political parties to upload the personal particulars (Form EC9) and names/list of nominated candidates (Form EC9B) on the portal.

He said the portal would open at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, March 4 and would be automatically shut down at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 24.

Mr Olumekun added that access codes for the portal would be available for the parties on Friday, March 1.

“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 (the government candidate and running mate).

“Therefore, there is no reason to request an extension of time, and none will be granted beyond Sunday, March 24.

“Political parties should ensure strict compliance with the timelines,“ Mr Olumekun said.

He said that to help political parties ensure seamless nominations, INEC plans to reorganise refresher training for two liaison officers of each political party.

Mr Olumekun said the training was slated from Friday, March 1 to March 4, at the INEC media centre at the INEC headquarters in Abuja.

He said the media centre would also serve as the help desk during the period of candidate nominations in case political parties needed assistance.

(NAN)