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INEC Tells Political Parties To Nominate Only Fresh Candidates For Bye-elections

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called on political parties to nominate fresh candidates for bye-elections rather than selecting sitting lawmakers. This appeal comes amidst rising concerns over the cost and frequency of conducting multiple elections for a single constituency.

Addressing political party leaders during the Commission’s first quarterly meeting of the year, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, revealed that 23 legislative seats have become vacant since the inauguration of the current assemblies in June 2023. Over the past year, the Commission conducted nine bye-elections, with 14 new vacancies emerging afterward.

Prof. Yakubu highlighted a recurring issue where one bye-election leads to another. He cited cases where a House of Representatives member wins a senatorial bye-election, leaving a vacancy in the lower chamber. Similarly, state assembly members contesting and winning federal seats further compound the situation.

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“This cycle of bye-elections not only strains the Commission’s resources but also diverts attention from its broader electoral responsibilities,” he explained.

The INEC Chairman emphasized the need for legislative reforms to introduce cost-effective alternatives for filling vacant seats, as practiced in other countries. The Commission has consistently advocated for this reform during budget defense sessions at the National Assembly.

“We appeal to stakeholders and political parties to support this cause and encourage the National Assembly to amend the law to address this issue,” Yakubu said.

Acknowledging the positive response from political parties during previous elections, Yakubu urged them to maintain this cooperative spirit by nominating new candidates instead of sitting lawmakers.

“By fielding fresh faces, we can prevent scenarios where one vacancy triggers a chain of elections in the same constituency,” he noted.

INEC’s appeal underscores the need for sustainable electoral practices, urging political parties to prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness in their candidate nominations.

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