INEC has dismissed the recall petition against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing constitutional non-compliance. The Kogi Central senator hailed the decision, thanking supporters for standing by her. The ruling underscores the challenges of recall efforts in Nigeria and the importance of due process in electoral matters.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed a recall petition filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, stating that it failed to meet constitutional requirements. The electoral body, in a statement released on Thursday, confirmed that the petition did not satisfy the necessary legal criteria and would not proceed further.
The move comes after some individuals initiated an effort to remove the senator representing Kogi Central, sparking debates over the validity of the recall process. INEC’s decision effectively puts an end to the attempt, reinforcing the importance of due process in electoral matters.
Reacting to the announcement, Senator Natasha took to Instagram to commend INEC, writing, “You did well.” She also expressed gratitude to her husband, supporters, and the people of Kogi Central for standing by her throughout the process.
Political analysts have weighed in on the decision, noting that recall petitions in Nigeria often face legal and procedural obstacles, making them difficult to execute. While her supporters view INEC’s ruling as a victory for democracy, critics argue that it highlights the challenges of holding elected officials accountable.
