Amidst the tumultuous political landscape in Nigeria, the Center For Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has sounded a clarion call to the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. The urgent plea is for the immediate conduct of fresh elections for the 27 state constituencies of the Rivers State House of Assembly. CHRAN’s assertion underscores the critical need to avert what it perceives as a “constitutional infraction” in the state.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, CHRAN’s state director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, and secretary, Christopher Ekpo, emphasized the imperative nature of their appeal. The call to action, made available to the press in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, resounds with urgency and unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles.
The crux of CHRAN’s plea revolves around the defection of the 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This transition, in the absence of division within the PDP, has prompted CHRAN to contend that their seats have become vacant in accordance with Section 109(1)(g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended.
CHRAN adamantly warns of the illegality of any actions taken by the aforementioned lawmakers in the context of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Such actions are deemed “unlawful, unconstitutional, null and void, and of no effect” by CHRAN, reinforcing the organisation’s steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law and constitutional integrity.
In addition to the call for electoral intervention, CHRAN has called upon Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to swiftly implement measures to maintain law and order in Rivers State. This appeal emanates from the recognition of the delicate sociopolitical fabric in the state, necessitating a concerted effort to forestall any potential upheaval.
Furthermore, CHRAN’s advisory to politicians serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize stability and democratic progress in Rivers State. The entreaty is a testament to CHRAN’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that the government can effectively deliver on its mandate of providing democratic dividends to the people of the state.
The unfolding crisis within the Rivers State House of Assembly reached a pivotal juncture on Monday, December 11, 2023, marked by the seismic defection of 27 lawmakers from the political party that facilitated their entrance into the assembly. This development serves as a catalyst for the urgent clarion call for electoral intervention to restore constitutional order and democratic sanctity in Rivers State.
