Delta Assembly’s declaration of Udu seat vacant threatens democracy, says Enajite Ogboru
House of Representatives hopeful for Ethiope Federal Constituency, Hon. Enajite (Rex) Ogboru, has condemned the decision of the Delta State House of Assembly declaring the seat of the member representing Udu State Constituency, Hon. Collins Egbetamah, vacant, describing the action as a threat to democracy and the rule of law.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, Ogboru, a member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), questioned the fairness and consistency of the Assembly’s decision, arguing that similar actions were not taken against lawmakers, including the Speaker, who previously defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to him, applying different standards to similar political situations undermines public confidence in democratic institutions and erodes the principles of justice and equality before the law.
“It is difficult to understand why such a decision is being taken against a legislator who defected to the NDC, when the Speaker of the House and several other members previously defected from the PDP to the APC without similar consequences. Justice must not only be done; it must also be seen to be done,” he stated.
Ogboru maintained that democracy is built on the rule of law, due process, constitutionalism and respect for the mandate freely given by the electorate, warning that selective application of constitutional provisions weakens Nigeria’s democratic culture.
He stressed that the mandate of the people remains sacred and should only be altered in strict compliance with the Constitution and the decisions of competent courts, insisting that political considerations should never override constitutional principles.
The House of Representatives hopeful called on the Delta State Government and all relevant authorities to urgently review the decision and ensure that justice, fairness and constitutional principles prevail.
He also appealed to the leadership of the Delta State House of Assembly to reconsider its position in the interest of democracy and the integrity of the legislature.
Ogboru further urged political leaders, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, the media and all advocates of democracy to peacefully defend democratic values and uphold the rule of law.
“This is not merely about one constituency or one political party. It is about protecting the integrity of our democracy, preserving the will of the people, and ensuring that no Nigerian is subjected to unequal treatment under the law,” he said.
He expressed hope that constitutional order and democratic principles would ultimately prevail, praying for continued peace and progress in Delta State and Nigeria.
