A civil society organisation, Nigeria Democratic Rights Advocacy (NDRA), has raised fresh concerns over a possible breach of Nigeria’s electoral laws following allegations of dual political party membership involving a senior party official.
In a statement released on Sunday, the group said it uncovered conflicting records showing Barrister Reuben Egwuaba listed as National Legal Adviser in both the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The statement, signed by NDRA’s General Secretary, Julius Aondowase, noted that one of the listings was reportedly backed by a court order, a development the group described as troubling and requiring immediate attention.
According to the organisation, the situation goes beyond a mere documentation error and raises serious legal and constitutional issues.
NDRA cited provisions of the Electoral Act, particularly Section 77, which clearly prohibits individuals from holding membership in more than one political party at the same time.
The group stressed that the law prescribes penalties for such violations, including heavy fines and possible imprisonment, underscoring the gravity of the allegation.
It also pointed out that the role of National Legal Adviser is a strategic position within a party’s National Executive Committee, requiring exclusive loyalty and full membership of a single political party.
The organisation warned that occupying such a position in two parties simultaneously, if confirmed, could amount to a direct violation of the law.
NDRA called on all parties involved to provide immediate clarification, stating that the public deserves transparency on the matter.
“If the records are accurate, then this constitutes a clear breach of the law. If not, there must be a prompt correction and explanation as to how such inconsistencies occurred,” the statement said.
The group further urged electoral authorities and relevant institutions to investigate the issue and take appropriate action where necessary.
It emphasised that strict adherence to the rule of law is essential for the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process and warned against allowing political parties to operate outside legal boundaries.
