The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria is gearing up to conduct rerun and bye-elections in 34 federal and state constituencies, with plans to hold the elections in the first week of February 2024. This decision was disclosed by INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during a meeting with political parties in Abuja, where he outlined the Commission’s preparations for the upcoming elections in the new year.
Following litigations arising from the 2023 general election, courts have ordered the commission to conduct rerun elections in 34 constituencies, spanning one Senate constituency, 11 federal constituencies, and 22 state constituencies. Additionally, INEC is mandated to conduct bye-elections to fill vacancies caused by the passing or resignation of members of the national and state assemblies. The Commission aims to consolidate and conduct both categories of elections on the same day, streamlining the electoral process.
It’s important to note that out of the 34 rerun elections, only three cases require the Commission to conduct elections for the entire constituencies. In the remaining 31 constituencies, elections are to be held in specific polling units. Mahmood emphasized that rerun elections involve the parties and candidates that participated in the general election, except in cases where a party seeks to replace a deceased candidate. On the other hand, bye-elections represent fresh elections, necessitating political parties to conduct new primaries within the stipulated timeframe as required by law.
The 34 constituencies at the center of these elections account for 2.8 percent of the 1,191 petitions filed by litigants. Mahmood highlighted that once all litigations, including pending governorship elections, are concluded, the Commission will present a comprehensive analysis of the petitions. This will extend to cases where the Commission was directed to issue Certificates of Return to alternative candidates, shedding light on the courts’ decisions. These insights will serve as valuable lessons from the 2023 general election, guiding consequential reforms to enhance the conduct of future elections.
Looking ahead, the Commission eyes the first week of February 2024 as the potential timeframe for the rerun and bye-elections. Mahmood underscored the Commission’s commitment to finalizing preparations and announcing a definitive date, accompanied by a detailed timetable and schedule of activities for the elections following the consultative meeting.
This proactive approach by INEC underscores its dedication to upholding the democratic process in Nigeria, ensuring transparency, and facilitating the effective functioning of the country’s electoral system. As preparations unfold, all eyes are set on the upcoming rerun and bye-elections, underscoring the significance of these developments in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
This move by INEC sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, signifying a critical juncture in the nation’s electoral trajectory as it charts a path towards fair, credible, and inclusive elections.
