The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has categorically debunked reports suggesting that it refused to accept the resignation of Edison Ehie, a former member of the Rivers State House of Assembly representing Ahoada-East Constituency II. The Commission described these claims as false, misleading, and devoid of any factual basis. INEC’s clarification comes in response to widespread speculation and confusion regarding Ehie’s status following his resignation from the Assembly during a turbulent political period in Rivers State.
Edison Ehie, a prominent figure in Rivers State politics, resigned from his position as a lawmaker at the peak of a political crisis that gripped the state. His decision to step down was closely tied to his subsequent appointment as the Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, a move that signaled a significant shift in his political career. However, recent reports attributed to the Rivers State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Gabriel Yomere, created uncertainty by suggesting that Ehie still retained his seat in the Assembly despite his resignation. These reports sparked debates and raised questions about the processes surrounding legislative resignations and INEC’s role in such matters.
In a detailed statement issued by Geraldine Ekelemu, the Acting Head of the Department of Voter Education and Publicity at INEC, the Commission sought to set the record straight. Ekelemu emphasized that the remarks made by Prof. Yomere during a visit by the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) were misinterpreted and misconstrued as representing INEC’s official position. The Commission firmly rejected the notion that it had any authority or involvement in accepting or rejecting a lawmaker’s resignation, labeling such claims as baseless and misleading.
INEC clarified that the power to declare a legislative seat vacant lies exclusively with the Rivers State House of Assembly, as stipulated by the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act. The Commission’s role, it explained, is limited to acting on formal notifications from the Assembly regarding a vacancy. Only upon receiving such notice would INEC proceed to organize a bye-election to fill the vacant seat, in accordance with legal provisions. The statement underscored that any suggestion that INEC had refused to acknowledge Ehie’s resignation was not only factually incorrect but also legally unfounded.
The controversy surrounding Ehie’s resignation stems from the broader political turmoil in Rivers State, which has been marked by intense power struggles and factional disputes within the state’s political landscape. Ehie’s exit from the Assembly was seen as a strategic move to align with Governor Fubara during a period of heightened tension. His appointment as Chief of Staff was perceived as an effort to consolidate the governor’s influence amid the crisis. However, the lingering uncertainty about his Assembly seat fueled speculation and misinformation, prompting INEC’s intervention to clarify the situation.
The Commission’s statement also highlighted the importance of adhering to constitutional processes in matters of legislative resignations and vacancies. According to INEC, the Nigerian Constitution explicitly vests the authority to declare a seat vacant in the leadership of the relevant legislative body—in this case, the Rivers State House of Assembly. This process ensures that the Assembly, as the primary institution responsible for its members, maintains control over its internal affairs, including the determination of vacancies arising from resignations, deaths, or other circumstances.
INEC further explained that its involvement in such matters is triggered only after the Assembly formally communicates a vacancy. Upon receiving such notification, the Commission is mandated to conduct a bye-election within a stipulated timeframe to ensure that the affected constituency is not left without representation. This process, INEC noted, is designed to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure continuity in governance. The Commission reiterated its commitment to following these legal procedures and urged the public to disregard unverified reports that could sow confusion.
The clarification from INEC also serves as a reminder of the need for accurate reporting and responsible dissemination of information, particularly in politically sensitive contexts. The misrepresentation of Prof. Yomere’s comments underscores the challenges of navigating Nigeria’s complex political environment, where misinformation can easily exacerbate tensions. By addressing the issue promptly, INEC aimed to restore public confidence in its operations and reaffirm its neutrality in political matters.
The political crisis in Rivers State, which provided the backdrop for Ehie’s resignation, has been characterized by a series of disputes involving key political actors and institutions. The crisis has seen clashes between factions loyal to different political leaders, with the state Assembly often at the center of these conflicts. Ehie’s resignation and subsequent appointment as Chief of Staff were significant developments in this ongoing saga, reflecting the fluidity of alliances and power dynamics in the state.
INEC’s statement also sheds light on the broader issue of legislative vacancies and the processes governing them in Nigeria. The Commission’s role as an electoral management body is strictly defined by law, and it operates within the boundaries of its mandate. By clarifying its position on Ehie’s resignation, INEC has sought to dispel any notions of overreach or interference in the affairs of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The Commission emphasized that it remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that electoral processes are conducted transparently and in accordance with established guidelines.
The public reaction to INEC’s clarification has been mixed, with some stakeholders commending the Commission for addressing the issue promptly, while others continue to raise questions about the broader political implications of the situation. The controversy has also reignited discussions about the need for greater clarity in the communication between state institutions, particularly in politically volatile regions like Rivers State. Observers have noted that the incident highlights the importance of robust mechanisms for resolving disputes and ensuring that political transitions are handled smoothly.
As Rivers State continues to navigate its political challenges, the role of institutions like INEC remains critical in maintaining stability and upholding democratic principles. The Commission’s intervention in this case demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that misinformation does not undermine public trust. By reiterating the legal framework governing legislative resignations and vacancies, INEC has sought to provide clarity and prevent further speculation.
Moving forward, the onus now lies on the Rivers State House of Assembly to take the necessary steps to formally declare Ehie’s seat vacant, should that be the case. Until such a declaration is made, INEC has made it clear that it cannot proceed with any bye-election or related actions. This development underscores the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in Nigeria’s democratic system, where each body has a clearly defined role to play.
In conclusion, INEC’s swift response to the reports about Edison Ehie’s resignation reflects its determination to maintain transparency and adherence to legal processes. By dispelling the false claims and clarifying its role, the Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality and fairness in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities of political transitions and the need for clear communication to prevent misunderstandings. As Rivers State continues to grapple with its political challenges, the actions of institutions like INEC will play a pivotal role in ensuring that democratic processes remain intact and that the will of the people is respected.
