The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare vacant the seats of four legislators who recently defected from the party to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The PDP condemned the defections, particularly those of sitting legislators elected under its platform, characterizing them as a flagrant betrayal of the trust placed in them by their constituents.
In a statement issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Maria Dogo, the PDP described the defections as both unconstitutional and unacceptable, urging the lawmakers to vacate their seats immediately.
The party referenced Sections 68(1)(g) and 109 of the Nigerian Constitution, which stipulate that legislators who change parties must forfeit their seats.
The PDP called on the Speakers of the House of Representatives and the Kaduna State House of Assembly to officially declare the seats vacant and notify INEC to organize by-elections.
While acknowledging the constitutional right of individuals to join any political party, the PDP expressed strong disapproval of these defections.
The party assured the people of Kaduna State, especially those in the affected constituencies, that it would seek legal action to reclaim its mandates, affirming that there was no division within the party leadership at the national level.
The PDP reiterated its position that it remains the party of choice for the majority of Kaduna State’s citizens, undeterred by the recent defections.
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