The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara against making misleading statements regarding political defections, particularly involving lawmakers. The warning was issued in response to comments attributed to the governor accusing INEC of selective conduct in filling vacancies arising from defections in the National and State Assemblies.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, clarified that the commission’s attention had been drawn to Governor Fubara’s allegations. Oyekanmi noted that while the governor accused INEC of failing to address vacancies resulting from the crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly, no specific instances of selective actions were provided.
Oyekanmi explained that the situation in the Rivers State House of Assembly, where two factions are vying for control, is currently sub judice, as the matter is pending in court. He emphasized that INEC has been joined in several lawsuits filed by litigants, including cases at the Supreme Court, and must await final judicial pronouncements before taking any action.
“Under the circumstances, the Commission must await the final judicial pronouncement on the matter before it embarks on a puerile exercise that may eventually amount to a nullity and a waste of public funds,” Oyekanmi stated.
He urged public officials to exercise caution in their statements to avoid misleading the public and casting aspersions on public institutions, especially when aware of pending court cases.
The statement underscores INEC’s commitment to adhering to legal processes and maintaining neutrality in political disputes.
