Anambra: Some stakeholders in Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu states have voiced their support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s decision to conduct by-elections for vacant legislative seats, asserting that it is not a waste of resources despite being close to the 2027 general elections.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the stakeholders emphasized that conducting by-elections is a constitutional necessity to maintain equity and representation. The survey conducted by NAN revealed that INEC plans to hold by-elections in six states, along with an off-cycle governorship election in Ekiti State. These by-elections will address senatorial vacancies in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Ondo States, as well as a House of Representatives seat in Kano and a State House of Assembly seat in Kebbi.
In Enugu, political analyst Bennet Edeh explained that the constitution mandates INEC to fill vacant elective positions within 90 days, thus necessitating the by-elections. Despite acknowledging the potential financial burden on the country, especially with general elections only months away, Edeh suggested amending the constitution to allow vacant seats occurring less than a year before the general election to be merged with the main election.
Ambrose Igboke, the Enugu State Chairman of the Public Affairs Analysts of Nigeria, defended the by-elections, emphasizing the importance of continuous representation. He argued that affected constituencies should not go without representation for extended periods and that democracy requires the people to have a voice at all times.
Justice Peter Umeadi, a former Anambra Chief Judge, stressed the importance of adhering to established rules and procedures, illustrating his point with an analogy of the Oguta Lake in Imo State, where two streams flow side by side but do not mix. He underscored that legal frameworks must be followed to uphold democratic principles.
Prof. Gerald Ezirim from the University of Nigeria Nsukka and Mr. Dan Ugwu, a lawyer and rights activist, both argued that six months is ample time for elected representatives to make meaningful contributions. They dismissed claims that conducting by-elections close to general elections is a waste of resources, emphasizing the need for representation to prevent marginalization.
In Ebonyi, legal practitioner Emmanuel Ekpeta noted that conducting by-elections is viable and necessary when seats become vacant due to death, recall, or resignation. He emphasized that filling such vacancies is crucial for the country’s development and governance.
Dr. Chris Elumunoh, a veteran journalist in Anambra, acknowledged the constitutional requirement for by-elections but questioned the practicality of such elections so close to general elections. While supporting the right to representation, he suggested that the process be reconsidered in light of the time constraints.
Mr. Maxwell Ezeude, a public affairs analyst, and Prince Chris Azor, President of the International Peace and Civic Responsibility Centre, raised concerns about the financial implications of holding by-elections shortly before general elections. They called for electoral reforms that balance constitutional compliance with practical realities, advocating for responsible governance and prudent use of public resources.
The debates and opinions surrounding the conduct of by-elections highlight the tension between constitutional mandates and practical considerations, with stakeholders advocating for reforms that align legal requirements with the nation’s interests and resources.