Joint Representation Sparks Controversy: Coalition Calls for INEC Investigation into APM and NDC Ties, Commission Responds

A civil society coalition, Nigeria Democratic Rights Advocacy, has expressed concern over an alleged breach of the revised Electoral Act, which prohibits individuals from holding dual membership in two political parties, citing the case of Barr. Reuben Egwuaba, who is listed as National Legal Adviser in both the Allied Peoples Movement and the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

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The group's General-Secretary, Julius Aondowase, noted that this inconsistency is not a minor error, but a serious legal contradiction with significant implications, as the law clearly prohibits belonging to more than one political party at the same time.

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According to the amended electoral provisions, specifically the modification of Section 77, any individual found guilty of dual party membership can face a fine of up to ₦10 million and/or a prison term of up to two years, highlighting the severity of the infraction.

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The position of National Legal Adviser is a core office within a party's National Executive Committee, requiring full and exclusive membership, making it impossible for one person to occupy this role in two parties simultaneously without violating the law.

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The situation demands urgent clarification from all parties involved, and if the records are accurate, it constitutes a clear violation of the law, while if they are not, the public deserves an immediate correction and explanation.

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The group emphasized that political parties must not become safe havens for legal contradictions and that the rule of law must be upheld without exception, calling on relevant authorities to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.

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When contacted, INEC's Deputy Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Wilfred Ifogah, stated that Barr. Reuben Egwuaba had reportedly resigned from the Allied Peoples Movement and is now a member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

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Ifogah explained that the reason Egwuaba's name was listed against both parties might be that the Allied Peoples Movement had not formally communicated the change to the commission, but assured that the necessary steps would be taken to update the portal.