The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been given a 14-day ultimatum by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to hold bye-elections for the 27 open seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Following the widespread defection of 27 MPs from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), this demand has been made.
At a press conference today, NDC convener Daniel Okwa voiced worries about the possible effects on democracy.
BREAKING: Two Rivers Lawmakers Reportedly Dump Wike, Return to PDP
Okwa emphasised that new elections are required because the defectors had essentially given up their seats, citing Section 109(g) of the Nigerian Constitution.
He demanded that the 27 MPs resign from their posts, citing their acts as a “breach of the Constitution.”
The NDC also issued a warning to INEC, stating that if it does not rigorously follow the law when holding the by-elections, citizens will take legal action against the electoral body.
“The President should tell Wike and the former lawmakers in clear terms that he cannot be associated or seen to be encouraging this shenanigans,” the group asserted.
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