Kalu rejects motion to summon INEC chairman, says briefing sufficient

Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has dismissed a motion aimed at summoning the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, to address the House on the preparations for the 2027 general elections. The motion was introduced by the Minority Whip, Mansur Soro, and the Deputy Minority Leader, Abdulsamad Dasuki.

Kalu contended that periodic public briefings by INEC are sufficient to address concerns about the electoral process, and inviting Amupitan to speak in front of the entire House could unnecessarily alarm the public and undermine confidence in the electoral proceedings. He emphasized that any remaining concerns should be directed to the relevant House committee, which is constitutionally obligated to engage with INEC.

Kalu argued that the commission has been adhering to the Electoral Act and addressing public concerns through its engagements. He further stated that the House should support INEC's preparations rather than subject it to an unplanned plenary inquiry. The proposed amendment, which referred the matter to the House Committee on Electoral Matters, was seconded by Babajimi Benson, a member representing Lagos State.

The motion was subsequently approved by a voice vote and referred to the House Committee on Electoral Matters.