by Isi Esene

The Independent National Electoral Commission has given a nod for the merger of three leading opposition parties – the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), an the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).

Reports say the certificates of the individual parties had been withdrawn and a new one signifying the merger will be given.

Read the statement released by the electoral body below:

“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved the application by three political parties – the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) – to merge into one, to be known as the All Progressives Congress.

“On considering the application, the Commission found that the applicant-parties have met all statutory requirements for the merger, and has accordingly granted their request.

“Consequently, the Commission has approved the withdrawal of the individual certificates of the applicant-parties, and the issuance of a single certificate to the All Progressives Congress.”