The Labour Party has condemned the defections of five members as “inconsistent with democratic norms” and in violation of Nigeria’s Constitution, particularly Section 68(g), which regulates defections by elected representatives.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Obiora Ifoh, the Labour party has vowed to take legal action against the defectors.
It noted that the lawmakers’ defections could only be legally justified in the event of a division within the party or a merger. It also called on Abbas to declare their seats vacant, arguing that their continued tenure was illegal.
“The defection, to us, is quite unfortunate and we condemn the action which is irrational, untenable, inconsistent and alien to all known norms for which democracy stands for.
“Section 68(g) of the 1999 constitution is emphatic on when to defect and what happens when a lawmaker sponsored by a political party decides to jump ship.
“Though the Labour Party leadership is undaunted by the defection, it has however, elected not to allow it slide and has therefore instructed its legal team to commence the legal actions against the defectors.
“And to also commence the process of regaining our mandates in line with the 1999 constitution and 2022 Electoral Act as amended.
Ifoh added that the party will also approach the Speaker of the House of Representatives to declare vacant the seats occupied by these former Labour Party members in line with the House Rules.
