The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, urging him to refrain from making misleading statements regarding political defections, especially among lawmakers.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja, addressing the governor’s recent accusations against the electoral body.
Governor Fubara had alleged that INEC was engaging in selective conduct by filling vacancies caused by the defection of some lawmakers while neglecting others, particularly those tied to the crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Responding to the claims, Oyekanmi stated that the governor failed to provide any concrete examples to support his allegations.
He clarified that the situation in Rivers State was complex, with two factions laying claim to the Assembly leadership and declaring each other’s seats vacant.
“In the midst of the crisis, three or so lawmakers have declared the seats of 27 members vacant and vice versa,” Oyekanmi noted.
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He emphasized that the matter was already before the courts, including the Supreme Court, making it sub judice — a legal term barring public commentary on ongoing court cases.
“The Commission must await the final judicial pronouncement before taking any action to avoid a nullity and wastage of public funds,” Oyekanmi added.
He further urged public officeholders to exercise caution in their statements to avoid misleading the public and undermining public institutions.
The crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly has continued to generate controversy, with both factions seeking legitimacy amid ongoing legal battles.