The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dealt a significant blow. Petitioners are seeking the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. She represents Kogi Central Senatorial District. In a statement released on Thursday, INEC declared the petition inadequate. It did not meet the constitutional requirements. These requirements are outlined in Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).
The petition to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was submitted to INEC, alleging various grounds for her removal from office. However, the electoral body initially rejected the petition due to missing addresses and other issues. The petitioners later submitted the required information, but INEC has now declared the petition inadequate.
To recall a senator, the petition must be signed by more than half of the registered voters. These voters must belong in the lawmaker’s constituency. In this case, the Kogi Central Senatorial District has 474,554 registered voters, meaning the petition required at least 237,278 signatures. However, INEC only verified 208,132 signatures/thumbprints from the petitioners.
In a statement, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee Sam Olumekun, said, “Consequently, the petition has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution.” No further action shall be taken on the recall of the Senator.
The rejection of the petition by INEC has significant implications for the petitioners and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. While the petitioners may choose to appeal the decision, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan can continue to discharge her duties as the representative of Kogi Central Senatorial District.
The rejection of the petition to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by INEC is a testament to the electoral body’s commitment to upholding the Constitution and ensuring that the recall process is followed diligently. As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the importance of constitutional compliance in the recall process.