The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained its inability to act decisively on the ongoing crisis in the Rivers State Assembly, citing conflicting court judgments as the primary reason for its hesitation.
The controversy involves calls for by-elections to fill the seats of 25 lawmakers aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike, whose positions were declared vacant by the faction loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Critics have accused INEC of inaction in addressing the issue.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu clarified the challenges the commission faces. He noted that contradictory rulings from the Rivers State High Court and the Federal High Court have created a legal deadlock, making it difficult for INEC to proceed.
Yakubu assured stakeholders that INEC is actively monitoring the situation and consulting with legal experts to determine the best course of action.
Meanwhile, he announced plans to conduct by-elections for vacant House of Representatives seats following the deaths of several members. INEC is targeting mid-December for these elections and is finalizing logistics, with official dates to be announced soon.
The crisis in the Rivers State Assembly highlights the broader challenges of navigating legal and political complexities in Nigeria’s electoral process. INEC’s cautious approach underscores the need for stability and legal clarity as it works to fulfill its mandate.