Thread by @Mbanire

Colleagues on this platform, as agreed last week, we are discussing recall process today and if space permits, impeachment process as it relates to the executive. #LeadershipTalks

This is consequent upon our agreement that where the legislators fall short of our constitutional expectation of them, there is the ultimate remedy, as electorates, before the end their tenure to have recourse to. #LeadershipTalks

By the combined provisions of the Nigerian constitution, any legislator, be it at the State houses of Assembly or the National Assembly can be removed from office in the following manner. #LeadershipTalks

By legislator, we are referring to any Senator, member of the House of Representatives or a member of the house of assembly. #LeadershipTalks

There must be a petition signed by not less than half of the total registered voters in that constituency addressed to the Chairman, independent national electoral commission. #LeadershipTalks

Where such petition has been received by the commission, the commission is under obligation within a period of ninety days to conduct a referendum in the said constituency to verify the fact that the electorates have lost confidence in the representation of the said legislator.

Although it is not explicit in the constitutional provisions, @inecnigeria usually verifies the signatures to ensure that throughly more than half of the alleged signatories are genuine. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria The threshold for reaching conclusion on the petition’s success is simple majority of the registered voters. To ensure the validity of the proposition and justify the recall, a referendum shall be conducted by the commission. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria It is when after the conduct of the referendum, INEC confirms that a simple majority of the electorates in that constituency do not have confidence in the legislator, his certificate will be withdrawn. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria The implication of this is that there is a recall of the said legislator, paving way for the conduct of a fresh election to elect a new representative. In this regard, all political parties can nominate candidates again. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria As for the local governments, procedures for the recall are meant to be within the law passed by the relevant house of assembly for the purpose of administration in the local government councils. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria This is the simple process required. However, in practice, it is not as easy as pictured. The first major challenge is securing that half plus of registered voters. It requires a lot of resources for the logistics even where the electorates are interested in the recall.

@inecnigeria Amassing the resources is a challenge on its own. After having the resources to prosecute, security of those involved in the procurement of the signature is another issue. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria Because of the impunity reigning in the land, the concerned legislator will go to any length to intimidate the proponents, particularly through the use of political thugs. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria Compromise of the process due to the poverty in the land is another obstacle. By the time the legislator starts distributing the illegal resources at his disposal, most of the electorates forget his sins and refuses to sign. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria Ignorance is another factor that inhibits the success of such venture. Most voters don’t understand their right from left and may not even understand the import of the process. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria Religious and cultural issues also militates against the recall process. Sentiments based on religion or culture normally comes into play. Compromise of the process by @inecnigeria staff cannot equally be ruled out. #LeadershipTalks

@inecnigeria These and so many other challenges at times frustrates the process. It is to be noted that after the successful gathering of more than half for the petition and verification of same, the state of referendum must gather simple majority to be successful.

All the factors enumerated above affects the second stage also. #LeadershipTalks

Thus resolving these challenges I believe, must be our thoughts but suffice to say that education and enlightenment of the people, provision of security particularly on enforcement of the law against crimes and thuggery in focus are crucial to the realisation of recall process.

Undoubtedly, lifting people out of poverty is also a way out. Finally, even where it is not successful, I will always urge that we embark on it from time to time. #LeadershipTalks

The shame aspect for the legislator is sufficient to shape his thought and affect his estimation and reputation of the concerned legislator. #LeadershipTalks

Due to constraint I feared above, I am unable to deal with impeachment. Hence, we will deal with same next week God willing!. Kindly share your question/contribution #LeadershipTalks