Hon. Adebayo Balogun, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters (INEC), has said that serving lawmakers or political office holders can contest in by-elections in Nigeria.
The Lagos state federal lawmaker emphasised that ongoing electoral reforms do not disenfranchise serving legislators at either the state or federal level from exercising their constitutional rights to vote and run for office.
Speaking in Abuja during an interaction with journalists, Hon. Balogun stressed the importance of ensuring that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) remains truly independent and adequately funded to effectively carry out its constitutional duties.
Representing the Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency in Lagos State, Balogun further stated that INEC should not use inadequate funding as an excuse to deny serving parliamentarians the right to participate in by-elections, highlighting the vital role experienced lawmakers play in the political space.
“If I were to advise, it is even better to use serving members who are experienced. For instance, if you are replacing a senator, you should consider a House of Representatives member who has experience in the field.
“It is unfortunate that by-elections arise due to events such as deaths or resignations. But when these opportunities come, they should not be restricted to certain individuals. Democracy is about allowing everyone to participate and letting the person with the highest votes win.”
Hon. Balogun emphasized that politics is not just about cost-saving but also about representing the will of the people. “Democracy is about numbers and the interests of the people. Let the wish of the people prevail in every federal constituency, senatorial district, and the country at large.
“Advice is not a law. No one should unlawfully disqualify a candidate simply because of the INEC Chairman’s suggestion. Any interested individual should continue with their ambition, and let the electorate in their constituencies make the final decision.”
