INEC Rejects Natasha’s Recall Petition, Citing Constitutional Shortfall
By Usman A Harande
Abuja, Nigeria – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially dismissed the petition seeking the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District. The electoral body announced its decision via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday afternoon, stating that the petition failed to meet the crucial requirements outlined in Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“The petition for the recall of the Senator representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the requirements of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended),” INEC declared in its concise statement.
Section 69(a) of the Constitution details the stringent procedures and legal thresholds that must be satisfied for a valid recall petition. These requirements often include a specific percentage of registered voters’ signatures and adherence to strict timelines.
The INEC’s decision effectively halts the recall process, affirming Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s continued tenure in the Senate. This development is likely to spark reactions from both supporters and critics of the senator within Kogi Central and across the nation.
This rejection by INEC emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to constitutional provisions in electoral processes, highlighting the legal complexities involved in recalling elected officials.
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