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, over delays in conducting bye-elections to fill vacant seats in the national and state assemblies.
This decision was made during Tuesday’s plenary following a motion by Jafaru Leko, a lawmaker representing Bogoro/Dass/Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituency in Bauchi State. Leko highlighted that several assembly seats became vacant due to resignations, deaths and appointments of former lawmakers to executive positions since the 2023 general elections.
Citing Section 68 of the 1999 Constitution, Leko stressed that such seats must be officially declared vacant. He also pointed out that Section 76(2) mandates INEC to conduct bye-elections within one month of a vacancy. However, the prolonged delay has left many constituencies unrepresented, violating their constitutional right to adequate representation.
The House expressed concern that INEC’s inaction undermines democracy and sets a dangerous precedent where electoral laws are not strictly followed. It directed the Committee on Electoral Matters to investigate the reasons behind the delay and invite INEC to explain the situation.
Additionally, the Committee on Legislative Compliance was tasked with ensuring the resolution is implemented and reporting back within four weeks for further legislative action.