The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)has begun move to fill the vacant seat of former Speaker of the House of Representative, Femi Gbajabiamila who is now the Chief of Staff to the President as it has published the notice of the Surulere Federal Constituency I bye-election as required by law.
The Surulere seat became vacant due to the resignation of Gbajabiamila, who after winning, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu as his Chief of Staff.
The commission’s spokesperson in Lagos, Adenike Oriowo said on Friday that the notice was pasted on Thursday at the commission’s headquarters in Sabo-Yaba for public viewing.
“The notice has also been posted at the commission’s Surulere Local Government Area Office.
“Section 28 (3) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that this should be done not later than 14 days before the election,” Oriowo added.
She said the INEC had commenced implementation of activities and timetable for the elections, adding that the INEC’s preparations were on top gear to ensure strict adherence to relevant laws and guidelines for the poll.
Oriowo said the commission will not fail to deliver a credible bye-election in the constituency.
Recall that INEC has fixed Feb. 3, 2024 for the conduct of re-run and by-elections in nine states, including Surulere Federal Constituency in Lagos State.
According to the time-table for the poll, conduct of party primary elections including resolution of disputes that may arise from the primary elections has been fixed to hold between Jan. 5 and Jan. 9.
The public campaigns by political parties will commence on Jan. 18 and end on Feb. 1.