COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE GENERAL MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS OF NIGERIA (AINPN) HELD ON TUESDAY 26TH MAY, 2026 AT THE ASSOCIATION’S SECRETARIAT
The Association of Independent Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (AINPN), as a non-partisan professional body and a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s democratic process, convened its monthly general meeting to deliberate on recent developments in the country’s political landscape, with particular attention to the conduct of party primaries and their implications for democratic consolidation.
After extensive deliberations, the Association issues the following communiqué:
1. Concern Over Irregularities in Party Primaries
AINPN notes with concern the recurring issues observed in the conduct of primaries by various political parties across the country, including reports of vote-buying, abrupt disqualifications, violence, and shortcomings in internal democratic processes. Such practices undermine public confidence in the electoral system.
2. Upholding Democratic Principles in Candidate Selection
The Association emphasizes that the primary process should remain open, transparent, and inclusive. The sidelining of qualified aspirants through late-stage disqualifications, without clear timelines and fair hearing, weakens the principles of internal democracy and equal opportunity.
3. Need for Timely and Transparent Screening Procedures
AINPN observes that matters relating to eligibility criteria—such as age verification, nomination requirements, and financial compliance—should be addressed and concluded before the commencement of primaries. This ensures clarity, reduces disputes, and promotes a level playing field for all aspirants.
4. Respect for Party Constitutions and the Electoral Act
The Association urges all political parties to ensure that their candidate selection processes strictly align with their own constitutions and the provisions of the Electoral Act. Adherence to established rules strengthens legitimacy and reduces post-primary conflicts.
5. Call for Transparent and Credible Primaries
AINPN calls on political parties to adopt transparent mechanisms for candidate selection that are acceptable to all aspirants and stakeholders. Credible primaries are the foundation for credible general elections.
6. Role of Regulatory Bodies
The Association urges the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that only outcomes of primaries conducted in compliance with the Electoral Act and party guidelines are recognized and accepted.
7. Encouraging Peaceful Resolution of Grievances
To aggrieved aspirants, AINPN encourages the use of internal dispute resolution mechanisms provided by political parties, such as appeal committees. Submitting formal protests with documented evidence remains the lawful and peaceful path to addressing grievances.
8. Commitment to Peace and Democratic Values
As an independent professional body, AINPN reaffirms its commitment to advocating peace, fairness, and genuine democratic ethos in Ondo State and across Nigeria. The Association will continue to promote issue-based discourse and responsible journalism in the public interest.
Signed:
Association of Independent Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (AINPN)
26th May, 2026
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