*** Expresses Concern Over Disenfranchisement of Constituents
By Mercy Adi
The House of Representatives has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct bye-elections for vacant seats in the National and State Assemblies. This move comes after concerns were raised about the delay in filling the vacant positions, which has resulted in the disenfranchisement of affected constituents.
Hon. Jafaru Leko (APC), representing Bogoro/Dass/ Tafawabalewa federal constituency Bouchi state, who sponsored the motion, noted that the Constitution mandates INEC to conduct bye-elections within a specific timeframe.
“Section 76(2) of the Constitution stresses the need for a bye-election to be conducted not later than one month after the vacancy occurs,” Leko emphasized.
Leko expressed worry that the continued vacancy of these seats without timely bye-elections violates constitutional principles of representation and deprives electorates of their right to adequate representation.
“This Electoral inaction from INEC violates the principles of democracy and representative governance, leaving citizens unrepresented, and also obstructs legislative activities,” the House noted.
The motion also highlighted concerns about the delay in conducting bye-elections, which sets a dangerous precedent where compliance with the Constitution and electoral laws becomes optional rather than mandatory.
In it’s resolution, the house to mandate the Committee on Electoral Matters to investigate the issue of electoral inaction and invite the leadership of INEC to provide a detailed explanation of the reasons behind the delay. The Committee on Legislative Compliance was also mandated to ensure implementation and report within four weeks for further legislative action