In a decisive move to address the prolonged delay in conducting bye-elections across the country, the House of Representatives has directed its Committee on Electoral Matters to summon the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. The lawmakers are demanding explanations for the commission’s failure to fill vacant seats in both the national and state assemblies within the stipulated constitutional timeframe.
The resolution was reached during Tuesday’s plenary session following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Jafaru Leko, representing Bogoro/Dass/Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituency in Bauchi State. Leko emphasized that under Section 76(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), INEC is mandated to conduct bye-elections within one month of a vacancy occurring in any legislative house.
Concerns Over Unfilled Legislative Seats
Raising concerns over the growing number of unoccupied legislative seats, Leko noted that vacancies have arisen due to resignations, deaths, and appointments of some lawmakers into executive positions at both state and federal levels since the conclusion of the 2023 general elections. Despite these developments, INEC has yet to conduct the necessary bye-elections, leaving several constituencies without proper representation.
“The House is aware that upon the declaration of these seats as vacant, the Independent National Electoral Commission, under Section 76(2), is obligated to conduct bye-elections to fill the vacancies and ensure proper representation of the affected constituencies,” Leko asserted.
He further expressed concerns that the prolonged vacancies amount to disenfranchisement of citizens, a situation that contravenes the principles of democracy and effective governance. “This inaction breaches the constitutional mandate, obstructs the democratic process, and deprives affected constituencies of their right to representation,” he added.
Lawmakers Warn of Democratic Implications
The delay, according to the lawmaker, undermines the credibility of the electoral process and sets a dangerous precedent where compliance with constitutional provisions becomes optional rather than obligatory. Leko warned that failure to address this issue could create room for further electoral lapses, weakening the foundations of Nigeria’s democracy.
Supporting the motion, several lawmakers emphasized that leaving citizens without representation for extended periods negatively impacts governance, as affected constituencies are unable to have their voices heard in legislative deliberations and policymaking.
House Directs Investigation into INEC’s Delay
Following extensive deliberations, the House mandated its Committee on Electoral Matters to investigate the reasons behind INEC’s failure to conduct the pending bye-elections. The committee was instructed to invite the electoral commission’s leadership for a comprehensive briefing on the situation and provide clear timelines for resolving the issue.
Additionally, the Committee on Legislative Compliance was tasked with ensuring full implementation of the resolution and is expected to present a report within four weeks for further legislative action.
Public Calls for Accountability
The delay in conducting these bye-elections has sparked concerns among political analysts and civil society groups, who argue that INEC’s inaction could erode public confidence in the electoral system. Some have called for stricter enforcement mechanisms to ensure that bye-elections are conducted promptly in line with constitutional provisions.
As the House intensifies efforts to ensure accountability, all eyes will be on INEC to provide a clear explanation and take immediate steps to rectify the delay. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether the electoral body will implement urgent measures or continue to face scrutiny from lawmakers and the general public.
