Why We Are Yet To Conduct By-Elections Into 7 Seats At N/Assembly – INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has opened up on why it is yet to conduct by-elections to fill the vacuum created by the demise of some federal lawmakers in active service, and the resignation of two legislators, several months after.
The commission attributed the reason to nonavailability of funds, noting that it would act on the issue when funds are made available.
Speaking to Daily Trust yesterday, the commission cited lack of funds as reason for the delay in conducting the by-elections.
Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, however, said that the commission was confident that the issue of funding would soon be resolved and the by-elections will be conducted.
“INEC will conduct all outstanding by-elections in due course. We have been hampered by lack of funds. But we are confident that all funding issues will soon be resolved,” Oyekanmi said.
There are seven vacant seats at the National Assembly. A break down showed that there are two vacant seats at the Senate and five at the House of Representatives.
Also, while five vacancies have been created sequel to the death of five lawmakers in both chambers, two vacancies are occasioned by the electoral victories of two lawmakers.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
