 has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to commence preparations for a by-election in the Ethiope East/Ethiope West Federal Constituency following the defection of Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).){kind=link}
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to commence preparations for a by-election in the Ethiope East/Ethiope West Federal Constituency following the defection of Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP argued that Hon. Ibori-Suenu’s defection has automatically rendered her seat vacant, citing Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The provision states that a lawmaker must vacate their seat if they switch parties during their tenure without valid justification.
According to the PDP, the Constitution and its interpretation by the Supreme Court make it clear that Ibori-Suenu’s defection disqualifies her from holding her position, along with any associated rights, privileges, or recognition as a member of the House of Representatives.
The party warned Hon. Ibori-Suenu against continuing to act as a representative, describing such actions as potential “impersonation with likely criminal consequences.”
The PDP has also written to INEC, requesting the prompt conduct of a by-election to replace her and restore representation for the Ethiope East/Ethiope West constituency.
Additionally, the PDP directed its National Legal Adviser to initiate legal action to safeguard the mandate originally given to the party in the constituency.
“The votes and mandate of the people of Ethiope East/Ethiope West belong to the PDP and cannot be appropriated by any individual or political party,” the party emphasized.
The PDP also called on the Sergeant-at-Arms of the National Assembly to enforce Hon. Ibori-Suenu’s removal in accordance with the law.