INEC Raises Questions Over Petition To Recall Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti | READ DETAILS

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cast doubt on the validity of the petition seeking to recall the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti. The electoral body, in a press release on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, noted that the petitioners failed to provide essential contact details, putting the entire process in question.

According to INEC, the petition was submitted alongside six bags of documents purportedly containing signatures from over half of the 474,554 registered voters across the 902 polling units in 57 registration areas of the five local government areas that make up Kogi Central: Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi, and Okene.

However, a major setback was immediately identified: the petitioners failed to comply with Clause 1(f) of INEC's 2024 Regulations and Guidelines for Recall. Instead of a clear and verifiable contact address, the petitioners vaguely stated "Okene, Kogi State" as their location. Furthermore, only one phone number, belonging to the lead petitioner, was provided, contrary to the requirement for multiple contact details of all representatives.

INEC's Stance on the Recall Process

The electoral commission reaffirmed that the recall of an elected legislator is a constitutional right of registered voters who have lost confidence in their representative. However, for the petition to progress, all necessary legal and procedural requirements must be met.

INEC emphasized that once a valid petition is received, a verification process would commence using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). This process would take place at polling units in an open and transparent manner, with petitioners, the affected senator, accredited observers, and the media allowed to witness the exercise.

The commission assured that if the petitioners comply fully with Clause 1(f), the next steps would be announced. Meanwhile, INEC is exploring alternative means to contact the petitioners to rectify the identified deficiencies.

INEC Warns Against Misinformation

Amidst speculation and narratives circulating on social media, INEC urged the public to disregard unfounded claims regarding the recall process. The commission reiterated its commitment to upholding the legal framework and ensuring due process is followed without bias.

INEC's position leaves the fate of the petition uncertain, as failure to meet the stipulated requirements could render the recall effort ineffective. Observers are keenly watching to see if the petitioners will correct the errors and proceed with the recall bid.

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