The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it has received multiple requests from various groups seeking to recall their representatives in the national and state assemblies.
This development comes as the commission released revised regulations and guidelines for the recall process of federal and state lawmakers, as well as local councillors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Mr. Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC, made the announcement on Thursday after a management meeting of the commission.
During the briefing, Olumekun explained that the increase in requests for recalls reflects the growing dissatisfaction among Nigerians with their elected representatives.
He stated, “We have seen a number of groups approaching us, requesting to initiate recall processes for their lawmakers. This is a significant development in our democratic process.”
He emphasised that while many groups are seeking to recall their representatives, it is the voters in a constituency who must initiate the process.
“The commission only implements the requests in line with Sections 69, 110, and 160 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and Sections 2(c) and 113 of the Electoral Act, 2022,” Olumekun clarified.
This legal framework sets out the necessary steps for initiating a recall, ensuring that the process adheres to constitutional provisions.
The revised guidelines aim to provide a clear and detailed procedure for constituents interested in recalling their representatives.
“The 10-page document detailing these regulations has been uploaded to our website and social media platforms for public access,” he added.
Olumekun urged constituents who are interested in initiating a recall to carefully read the guidelines to ensure their petitions comply with the legal requirements.
“Proper preparation and understanding of the guidelines will facilitate a smoother process for those who wish to submit their petitions,” he noted.
The call for recalls comes at a time when many Nigerians are expressing frustration over various issues, including economic hardship, insecurity, and poor governance.
Recent surveys and public sentiment indicate a growing discontent with elected officials, prompting citizens to seek a way to hold them accountable.
This discontent is particularly pronounced in states where local and federal representatives have been accused of failing to address pressing community issues.
Olumekun’s statement highlights the importance of active citizenship in a democracy.
He said, “Democracy thrives on the participation of the citizens. When people are unhappy with their representatives, they have the right to seek a recall.”
This sentiment echoes the voices of many Nigerians who feel their concerns are not being adequately addressed by their elected officials.
The increased requests for recalls may signal a shift in political engagement, with citizens becoming more proactive in demanding accountability from their leaders.
As the country prepares for the upcoming Edo State governorship election, the INEC is focused on ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
Olumekun reassured the public that the commission is ready to facilitate the necessary procedures for recalls as well as for upcoming elections.
“The management is currently reviewing final preparations for the Edo State election, ensuring everything is in place for a successful exercise,” he stated.
This focus on electoral integrity comes at a critical time when many Nigerians are looking to see changes in their political landscape.
The public’s willingness to pursue recalls could lead to significant shifts in the makeup of local and federal assemblies if enough petitions gain traction.
Political analysts believe that the rising demand for recalls may influence how current lawmakers perform their duties in the coming months.
“This trend may push lawmakers to be more responsive to their constituents, knowing that their positions are at risk,” said Dr. Ayo Ndukwe, a political analyst based in Abuja.
In this context, the role of INEC becomes even more vital, as it serves as the arbiter of the recall process and the electoral system in Nigeria.
The ongoing requests for recalls reflect a deeper need for reform and responsiveness in Nigeria’s democratic framework.
