NDC Issues Ultimatum to INEC Following Defection of 27 PDP Lawmakers in Rivers State

In a recent development, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has declared that the 27 lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State have officially vacated their seats.

The pro-democratic group, led by Daniel Okwa, convened a press conference on Tuesday, expressing deep concern over the unfolding political events in Rivers State and highlighting the potential threats to democracy.

Okwa cited Section 109 (g) of the Nigerian Constitution, emphasizing that the defection automatically results in the forfeiture of their seats, necessitating fresh elections.

“The 27 controversial lawmakers must simply comply with the position of the law by vacating the Rivers State House of Assembly, having breached the Constitution.

Under the law, these lawmakers cease to be elected representatives of the people, and their offices must be declared vacant,” Okwa stated.

The NDC has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct bye-elections for the now “vacant” constituencies in the State House of Assembly.

Expressing disappointment, the NDC asserted that the lawmakers were allegedly misinformed and misled into defecting, unaware of the legal implications.

The group warned of potential similar scenarios in other states and urged INEC to promptly conduct bye-elections.

They cautioned that failure to comply with the law could lead to citizens taking legal action against the electoral body, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic processes.