The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed the petition seeking to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, citing failure to meet constitutional requirements.
In an official statement released on its X handle on Thursday, INEC referenced Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which sets the legal threshold for recalling an elected lawmaker. According to the commission, the petition did not satisfy the necessary conditions, effectively bringing the recall attempt to a standstill.
What does Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) say?
Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) outlines the procedure for recalling a member of the National Assembly (Senate or House of Representatives).
Specifically, it states that:
A member of the Senate or the House of Representatives may be recalled if a petition is presented to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), signed by more than half of the registered voters in that member’s constituency, alleging their loss of confidence in the legislator.
Once such a petition is submitted and verified, INEC is required to conduct a referendum within 90 days. If the majority of registered voters in that constituency vote in favor of the recall, the lawmaker is removed from office.
Key Requirements for a Recall Under Section 69(a):
- Petition Signed by More than Half of Registered Voters – At least 50%+1 of voters in the affected senatorial district or constituency must support the recall.
- Submission to INEC – The petition must be formally presented to the INEC Chairman.
- Verification by INEC – The electoral body must confirm the authenticity of the petition, including the signatures.
- Referendum Within 90 Days – If verified, INEC must conduct a public vote to determine if the lawmaker should be removed.
- Majority Vote for Removal – The recall succeeds only if a majority of registered voters in the constituency vote in favor of the lawmaker’s removal.
“The petition for the recall of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended),” INEC stated.
With this ruling, the recall process against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is now void, reaffirming the constitutional safeguards that govern electoral mandates in Nigeria.
