The Delta State Chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) strongly condemns the decision of the Delta State House of Assembly to declare the seat of the Member representing Udu State Constituency, Hon. Barr. Egbetamah Ovie Collins, vacant following his defection to the NDC.
This action is unconstitutional, unjust, politically motivated, and a blatant attempt to intimidate opposition voices in Delta State. It is a dangerous abuse of legislative powers and a direct assault on the principles of democracy, fairness, and the rule of law.
It is both ironic and hypocritical that the same political actors who celebrated and retained their positions after defecting from the PDP to the APC now seek to punish another elected representative for exercising the same constitutional right. Democracy cannot thrive where one law applies to the ruling party and another to the opposition.
The mandate Hon. Egbetamah Ovie Collins holds belongs to the people of Udu, not to any political party or a House driven by partisan interests. Any attempt to subvert the will of the electorate through intimidation or selective interpretation of the law is unacceptable.
The Delta State NDC calls on all lovers of democracy, civil society organisations, and well-meaning Deltans to reject this dangerous precedent and stand in defence of constitutional democracy.
NDC remains resolute in protecting the democratic rights and mandate of the people.
Signed:
for & on behalf of the:
Nigeria Democratic Congress
Delta State
Chief McCollins Nwose,
State Publicity Secretary,
NDC, Delta State
