The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the timetable and schedule for upcoming bye-elections and court-ordered re-runs across the country. This action aligns with Section 76, 116, and 178 of the 1999 Constitution.
The Commission stressed that this move is necessary due to the resignation or death of members of the National and State Houses of Assembly.
In a statement signed by Sam Olumekun, the national commissioner and chairman of the Information Voter Education Committee, INEC confirmed the approval of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities. These activities are geared towards conducting bye-elections resulting from the resignation or demise of Members of the National and State Houses of Assembly.
INEC highlighted that these vacancies were declared by the Presiding Officers, namely the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Speakers of State Houses of Assembly.
The Commission specified that the vacancies occurred across two Senatorial Districts, four Federal Constituencies, and three State Constituencies spanning nine States of the Federation.
Additionally, it stated that the Commission is overseeing re-run elections resulting from the 2023 General Election, as directed by various Election Petition Appeal Tribunals.
The statement mentioned, “Currently, 35 Constituencies are affected by these Court-ordered elections. While three cover entire constituencies, others involve only a few Polling Units.”
“Both categories of elections are scheduled to take place simultaneously in all affected constituencies on Saturday, 3rd February 2024,” the statement further elaborated.
The Commission has uploaded the timetable for the elections, including detailed delimitation data such as registration areas, polling unit names, number of registered voters, and PVCs collected. This information is available on the Commission’s website and social media platforms. It serves as a guide for political parties and candidates, and for public information.
INEC, however, urged parties and candidates to strictly adhere to the specified timelines for the seamless conduct of these elections.
