Reps committee rejects INEC’s call to bar serving lawmakers from bye-elections

The House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters has dismissed a recent suggestion by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) advising political parties to exclude serving lawmakers from contesting bye-elections.

Hon. Adebayo Balogun, Chairman of the committee, made this stance clear while addressing Parliamentary Correspondents.

He emphasized that no law in Nigeria prohibits serving lawmakers or political office holders from participating in bye-elections.

According to Hon. Balogun, INEC’s recommendation is not supported by the Electoral Act and remains merely an advisory that political parties may choose to accept or ignore.

He described the move to restrict serving lawmakers as undemocratic and contrary to the principles of fairness.

Highlighting precedent, Balogun referenced Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State and Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, who successfully contested elections while serving as lawmakers.

He argued that serving lawmakers possess valuable legislative experience, making them strong candidates for higher elective positions.

“Restricting serving lawmakers from contesting bye-elections is not part of our Electoral Act or under consideration. In fact, it’s even better to field experienced lawmakers for vacant positions such as Senate seats. Many Senators are former House members, and it’s a natural progression in a democratic setting,” Balogun explained.

He noted that bye-elections are often unavoidable due to resignations or deaths and stressed the importance of allowing all eligible individuals to participate.

“Democracy is about numbers. We shouldn’t limit the field of candidates; let the people decide,” he added.

Balogun also criticized the notion of barring candidates based on INEC’s advice, stating that it could undermine the democratic process.

“Advice is not law. It’s up to parties and candidates to consider such advice, but no one should be disqualified on that basis,” he stated.

He concluded by urging interested candidates to pursue their ambitions and called on political parties to prioritize the electorate’s wishes.

“Democracy is about the people’s will. Let the voters decide who represents them,” he said.