Defections: ‘Your Allegations Misplaced’, INEC Replies Gov Fubara
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has responded to allegations made by the governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, accusing the Commission of selective implementation in filling vacancies resulting from defections by serving members of the National and State Assemblies.
In a statement issued on Friday, Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, addressed the governor’s concerns, clarifying that no specific instances of the alleged selective actions were provided in Fubara’s statement. The governor had particularly accused INEC of intentionally failing to fill vacancies caused by the ongoing crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly, where two factions are competing for control.
INEC, however, refuted the claims, describing them as “misplaced.” The Commission emphasized that it could not take any action regarding a matter that is currently sub judice, meaning it is still pending in court.
The statement outlined the ongoing situation in the Rivers State House of Assembly, noting that several lawmakers had declared the seats of 27 members vacant, with others also doing the same, further complicating the issue.
“While the Commission is aware of the situation in the Rivers State House of Assembly, the matter is pending in court and, therefore, sub judice,” the statement read. “The Commission has been joined in several suits filed by litigants at various courts, including the Supreme Court. Under the circumstances, the Commission must await the final judicial pronouncement on the matter before it embarks on an exercise that may eventually amount to a nullity and a waste of public funds.”
INEC also urged individuals in high public office to be cautious with their statements, particularly when matters are still before the courts, in order to avoid misleading the public or casting aspersions on public institutions.
The Commission’s response underscores its adherence to legal processes, highlighting the importance of waiting for a final court decision before taking any further actions on the matter.
