Umar Damagun, the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organize bye-elections for 27 state constituencies in Rivers State.
This request follows the recent defection of lawmakers from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
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In a letter dated November 13, 2024, Damagun urged INEC to declare these seats vacant and proceed with fresh elections. He cited Section 109 (1)(g) of the Nigerian Constitution, which states that a lawmaker loses their seat if they switch parties without legitimate grounds.
According to Damagun, these lawmakers had no lawful reason, such as an internal party division or merger, for their move to the APC. Therefore, their departure from the PDP nullifies their positions and requires new elections.
Damagun highlighted the importance of upholding democratic principles and respecting the Constitution.
He argued that by leaving the PDP, these lawmakers forfeited their right to their seats and must seek a renewed mandate from voters if they wish to return to the House of Assembly under a different party.
The contents of Damagun’s letter were shared with the public by
, spokesperson for the Opposition Lawmakers Coalition, during a press conference in Akokwa, Imo State.
Ugochinyere emphasized the PDP’s stance on the issue, noting that the party would pursue all legal avenues to ensure compliance with the Constitution and prevent what it views as an unauthorized occupation of legislative seats.
