The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Tuesday, omitted the names of Timipre Sylva and his ruining mate, Joshua Maciver of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in its list for the Bayelsa governorship election.
The secretary of the commission, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, signed the list.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the column for the names of APC candidate and his ruining mate was left blank with “court order” remarks.
Politics Nigeria lists five reasons why the court verdict went against the immediate past minister of petroleum.
1) Double Term Limit: Timipre Sylva’s Double Stint as Governor
Timipre Sylva previously served as the governor of Bayelsa State. He completed two terms in office, which led to a constitutional restriction. As amended in 1999, the Nigerian constitution prohibits individuals from serving more than two terms in the same office, aiming to prevent long-term incumbency.
2) Violation of Constitutional Term Limits
The Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that Timipre Sylva’s candidacy would breach the constitution’s term limit restrictions. Allowing him to contest again and potentially serve a third term would violate the constitutional provisions designed to ensure fresh leadership and prevent undue consolidation of power.
3) Exceeding the Eight-Year Limit
In his previous terms as governor, Sylva ruled for a cumulative period that would exceed the eight-year limit set for governors. This, according to the court’s ruling, further confirmed his ineligibility to run for a third term.
4) Upholding the Rule of Law
INEC, as the electoral regulatory body, has a legal obligation to uphold court orders. The court’s disqualification of Timipre Sylva from the election was a clear directive, and INEC’s action in leaving the APC candidate’s slot empty with “court order” remarks demonstrated its commitment to the rule of law.
5) Compliance with Court Orders
As per the respective suits, the Federal High Court in Abuja and the Federal High Court in Owerri ordered INEC to take specific actions regarding Timipre Sylva’s candidacy and, including the PRP governorship candidate in Imo State. INEC’s amendments to the candidates’ lists were in direct response to these court orders, reflecting its commitment to the legal process and judicial decisions.
