INEC Unveils Updated Guidelines for Lawmaker Recalls

…….INEC Announces New Guidelines for Lawmaker Recalls Amid Calls from Constituents

…….The Independent National Electoral Commission introduces new regulations to streamline the recall process for lawmakers, ensuring clarity and compliance with constitutional provisions

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rolled out revised guidelines and regulations governing the recall of lawmakers at both state and federal levels. This significant update, which was unveiled by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, on Thursday, September 19, 2024, comes in response to increasing demands from voters seeking to initiate the recall process.

During a critical meeting, the commission reviewed its preparations for the upcoming Edo State governorship election, slated for September 21, 2024. Alongside these preparations, INEC also approved the new recall guidelines, which outline a more transparent process for removing representatives from office.

This decision follows a growing number of petitions from constituents across the country, requesting that their representatives in both the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly be recalled. Some groups have even appealed to INEC to begin the recall process on their behalf. However, Olumekun stressed that the commission’s role is strictly to facilitate and oversee the process initiated by voters.

“The commission has received several requests from various groups for the recall of their lawmakers,” Olumekun explained, adding that the recall process is strictly initiated by voters and not by INEC. “The commission only acts in line with Sections 69, 110, and 160 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Sections 2(c) and 113 of the Electoral Act, 2022,” he said.

The updated guidelines, which are detailed in a 10-page document, require that constituents submit a formal petition to the INEC Chairman to initiate the recall process. These guidelines are readily available on INEC’s official website and social media platforms, enabling constituents to familiarize themselves with the procedures.

Key Points of the New INEC Recall Guidelines:

1. Petition Process: Constituents must submit a petition to INEC, signed by a substantial percentage of registered voters in the affected constituency.
2. Constitutional Alignment: The process follows constitutional and electoral laws to ensure legal compliance.
3. Transparency: The new guidelines aim to simplify the recall process, making it easier for constituents to understand and initiate recalls where necessary.

As the commission prepares for upcoming elections, these new regulations highlight its ongoing efforts to enhance electoral processes and uphold democratic accountability.