The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has requested the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct bye-elections to fill the seats of 27 Rivers State lawmakers who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a letter dated November 13, 2024, Damagum cited Section 109(1)(g) of the Nigerian Constitution, which declares a lawmaker’s seat vacant if they defect to another political party without valid justification. He argued that the lawmakers’ defection lacked legal basis since the PDP had not experienced any division or merger to warrant such a move.
“These lawmakers abandoned their mandate under the PDP without any constitutional justification. Their seats are now vacant, and fresh elections are necessary to restore proper representation,” Damagum stated.
The letter was disclosed to the public by Ikenga Ugochinyere, spokesperson for the Opposition Lawmakers Coalition, during a press briefing in Akokwa, Imo State.
The PDP’s call highlights its determination to uphold constitutional principles and ensure accountability within the legislative process.
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