Voters in the Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani Federal Constituency of Enugu State have started the process to recall their representative in the House of Representatives, Hon. Martins Oke.
According to a petition dated March 27, 2025, and sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the voters claim that Oke has failed to perform his duties. The petition was signed by at least 50% of registered voters in the constituency.
The petitioners, led by Mr. Ugwuagbo Emmanuel Chizoba, Mr. Clinton Ogbonna, Mr. Sabinus Amah, and Mr. Stephen Okenwa, listed several reasons for their decision:
- Lack of Performance: They said Oke has been in office for three terms but has not sponsored any popular bills or motions. They also claim there are no visible projects credited to him.
- Absence in National Assembly: The voters argue that Oke is rarely seen or heard during legislative sessions.
- Election Controversy: The petitioners allege that Oke was not the people’s choice but was imposed on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). They also claim he lost the general election but was declared the winner by the Appeal Court on technical grounds.
- No Constituency Office or Engagement: The petition states that Oke does not have a constituency office, has never held a town hall meeting, and remains disconnected from the people.
For a recall to succeed, the process must follow INEC’s guidelines, including verification of signatures and a referendum. If completed successfully, Martins Oke could lose his seat in the House of Representatives.
The recall effort highlights the growing demand for accountability from elected officials in Nigeria. It remains to be seen how INEC will respond and what steps Oke will take to defend his position.
