PDP asks INEC to declare seats of four defectors vacant

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare the seats of four defected lawmakers as vacant following their shift to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Maria Dogo, the PDP condemned the defections of three members of the State House of Assembly and one member of the House of Representatives, who were elected under the PDP’s platform.

The party described the lawmakers’ actions as a clear violation of public trust and an affront to the people who elected them.

The PDP cited the constitutional provisions in Sections 68(1)(g) and 109, which require lawmakers who defect from the party that sponsored them to vacate their seats.

The party called on the Speakers of the Kaduna State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives to immediately declare the affected seats vacant and notify INEC for by-elections to be held.

While respecting the right of individuals to associate with any political party, the PDP stressed that these defections were unacceptable.

It reassured the people of Kaduna State, particularly the affected constituencies, that it would pursue constitutional measures to reclaim its mandates and reaffirm its leadership, which remains united at the national level.

The party expressed confidence that, despite the defections, it continues to enjoy widespread support among the people of Kaduna State.