The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State has filed a suit to vacate Ibori-Sueni’s seat.
The lawmaker, representing Ethiope East/Ethiope West Federal Constituency, defected from PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
PDP is seeking a court order to declare her seat vacant due to the defection.
The suit was filed at the Federal High Court in Warri on December 11, 2024, by Dr. Ayo Asala, SAN.
The PDP argues that her defection violates Section 68(1)(g) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution as amended.
PDP insists the court should compel Ibori-Sueni to vacate her position in the House of Representatives immediately.
The party further demands an order of perpetual injunction preventing her from holding any legislative duties.
The PDP claims that by defecting from their platform to APC, Ibori-Sueni forfeits her seat.
The party argues that she was elected under PDP’s banner and can no longer represent the constituency after defecting.
The party has also requested that INEC conduct a by-election to fill the vacant seat.
PDP is seeking to retrieve all salary and emoluments Ibori-Sueni received after joining the APC.
The lawsuit challenges the legality of her continued representation while a member of a different party.
The PDP wants the court to declare that she should have vacated her seat following her defection.
The case, filed against Ibori-Sueni, INEC, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, is ongoing.
In the originating summons, the PDP urges the court to interpret Section 68(1)(g) regarding party defection and seat vacating.
The case highlights the legal consequences of political party defection for elected officials in Nigeria.
