The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has attributed the prolonged delay in conducting the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election and other pending polls across the country to a lack of adequate funding and logistical constraints.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed that the Commission is currently unable to proceed with the elections due to insufficient budgetary allocations. According to him, although the Federal Government recently approved ₦500 million to INEC, the amount falls significantly short of what is required to organize the outstanding by-elections in multiple states.

“We have written to the Executive for additional funding, and we are in touch with the National Assembly. Once we secure the needed resources, we will immediately release a timetable for the pending elections,” Yakubu said.

The Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat became vacant following the death of Hon. Musliudeen Akinremi in July 2024. Nearly a year later, constituents remain without representation in the National Assembly, prompting widespread concern among residents and political stakeholders in Oyo State.

In total, there are 16 vacant legislative seats spread across 12 states awaiting by-elections. The Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act mandate INEC to conduct a by-election within 30 days of a declared vacancy. The Commission’s failure to meet this deadline has triggered criticism from lawmakers and civil society groups.

Recently, the House of Representatives summoned INEC to explain the reasons for the delays, amid growing pressure to ensure compliance with constitutional obligations and restore democratic representation in affected constituencies.

In Ibadan North, community leaders and youth groups have raised alarm over what they described as “deliberate neglect,” urging INEC to expedite action and allow the people to elect a new representative.

As of now, the electoral body maintains that it is unable to act without the requisite financial backing but reassures the public that plans are underway to hold the elections as soon as conditions permit.