Damagun Debunks Rumors: I Never Wrote to INEC to Conduct Rivers Assembly Election

Umar Damagun, the Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has denied rumors that he wrote to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a bye-election to replace 27 lawmakers who defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.

According to reports, Damagun had written to INEC, demanding the conduct of fresh elections in the 27 state constituencies that became vacant due to the defection of the lawmakers. However, Damagun has now come out to debunk these rumors, stating that he never wrote to INEC to conduct the election.

“I want to categorically deny the rumors that I wrote to INEC to conduct a bye-election in Rivers State,” Damagun said in a statement. “I never wrote such a letter, and I’m not aware of any plans by the PDP to conduct a bye-election in the state.”

The Controversy Surrounding the Defection

The controversy surrounding the defection of the 27 lawmakers has been ongoing, with many calling for their replacement. The lawmakers had defected from the PDP to the APC, citing various reasons for their decision. However, the PDP has argued that the defection was unconstitutional and that the lawmakers should vacate their seats.

The APC’s Response

The APC has responded to Damagun’s denial, stating that the PDP is trying to cover up its own internal crisis. “The PDP is trying to shift attention from its own internal crisis by denying the obvious,” said an APC spokesperson. “The fact remains that the 27 lawmakers defected from the PDP to the APC, and the PDP is trying to find ways to replace them.”

The INEC’s Stance

INEC has also weighed in on the controversy, stating that it has not received any letter from the PDP or any other political party requesting the conduct of a bye-election in Rivers State. “We have not received any letter from the PDP or any other political party requesting the conduct of a bye-election in Rivers State,” said an INEC spokesperson. “We will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary action if required.”

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the defection of the 27 lawmakers in Rivers State continues to unfold. While Damagun has denied writing to INEC to conduct a bye-election, the APC has accused the PDP of trying to cover up its own internal crisis. The situation remains tense, with many waiting to see how events will unfold.