7 Seats, 0 Elections: INEC Blames Empty Senate, House Slots on Lack of Funds
Several months after the deaths and resignations of federal lawmakers, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to conduct by-elections to fill seven vacant seats in the National Assembly, citing financial constraints as the main reason for the delay.
The prolonged vacancies—two in the Senate and five in the House of Representatives—have triggered outrage from constituents, civil society groups, and political observers who say the inaction violates constitutional mandates and denies citizens their right to representation.
INEC’s Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, confirmed the commission’s inability to act, stating: “We have been hampered by lack of funds. But we are confident that all funding issues will soon be resolved.”
Among the affected constituencies:
-
Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah (APC, Anambra South) – died September 2024.
-
Sen. Monday Okpebholo (APC, Edo Central) – vacated seat after becoming Edo Governor.
-
Rep. Isa Dogonyaro (Jigawa) – died May 2024.
-
Rep. Olaide Akinremi (Oyo) – died July 2024.
-
Rep. Ekene Adams (Kaduna) – died July 2024.
-
Rep. Adewunmi Onanuga (Ogun) – died January 2025.
-
Rep. Dennis Idahosa (Edo) – vacated seat as new Deputy Governor.
Under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, INEC is required to hold by-elections within 90 days of a declared vacancy. Critics argue that failing to do so not only erodes public trust but also leaves millions without legislative voice.
In Kaduna and Edo, frustrated residents have accused INEC of “deliberate abandonment,” questioning the fate of constituency projects and federal attention.
Yiaga Africa’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, noted that while financial challenges are real, “Nigeria must institute legal safeguards to prevent such delays in future.”
Political analyst Jackson Lekan Ojo added: “This is not just a technical lapse—it’s a democratic failure. INEC must act decisively.”
Veteran politician Chief Chekwas Okorie said there’s “no excuse” for breaching the Constitution, urging the National Assembly to hold INEC accountable.
INEC insiders also cited security concerns in some areas, noting ongoing assessments of risks to staff and voters as another reason for the delay.
Analysts now urge a constitutional amendment to streamline procedures, ensure automatic triggers for by-elections, and guarantee uninterrupted representation for all Nigerians.
