Kenneth Okonkwo demands Bayelsa governorship seat be declared vacant
Veteran actor and politician Kenneth Okonkwo has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare the governorship seat in Bayelsa State vacant and immediately conduct a fresh election. He made this demand after Governor Douye Diri purportedly resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leaving him without a party affiliation. Okonkwo cited Section 177(c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to argue that any elected official must belong to a political party at all times, and that quitting a party without immediately joining another effectively disqualifies one from holding office. He urged INEC to act swiftly and hold the gubernatorial election within the constitutional 90-day period.
The call adds tension to the political climate in Bayelsa, where the legitimacy of Diri’s continued tenure now faces public scrutiny. Okonkwo’s stance hinges on interpreting constitutional provisions regarding party membership and office eligibility. Others may argue that such a resignation does not automatically vacate the seat without due legal process, including court rulings. The matter may soon end up in Nigeria’s courts for judicial interpretation and final determination.
