The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently concluded off-cycle gubernatorial elections in Edo and Ondo States. These elections, though routine in execution, have intriguing backstories rooted in landmark court rulings that reshaped the political landscape of these states and demonstrated the dynamism of Nigeria’s democracy.
In 2008, the election of Professor Oserheimen Osunbor of the PDP as governor of Edo State was annulled by the court, leading to an off-cycle election. Similarly, in 2009, a court invalidated the election of Dr Olusegun Agagu of the PDP in Ondo State. These judicial interventions upheld the sanctity of the electoral process while significantly altering the electoral calendars of both states, creating unique rhythms in their political trajectories.
Beyond Edo and Ondo, other states have followed similar paths due to court rulings or extraordinary circumstances:
- Anambra State – The off-cycle timeline began when Peter Obi was reinstated by the court in 2006, following the annulment of Chris Ngige’s election.
- Kogi State – The 2007 election of Ibrahim Idris was annulled, leading to a rerun in 2008 and the subsequent off-cycle schedule.
- Bayelsa State – The annulment of Timipre Sylva’s 2007 election created a distinct electoral timeline.
- Osun State – A 2010 judicial ruling nullified Olagunsoye Oyinlola’s election, shifting the electoral cycle.
- Ekiti State – A court ruling in 2010 removed Segun Oni, placing the state on an off-cycle trajectory.
- Imo State – In 2020, the Supreme Court declared Hope Uzodimma as governor, realigning the state’s electoral calendar.
These off-cycle elections highlight a key constitutional principle: the guarantee that every elected governor serves a full four-year term. They also showcase how judicial interventions ensure fairness and accountability, reinforcing the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system.
Interestingly, the North West and North East geopolitical zones have no states with off-cycle elections. In fact, Kogi State stands as the only state in the entire North with an off-cycle gubernatorial election calendar.
Off-cycle elections are more than administrative adjustments; they reflect the resilience of Nigeria’s democracy and the critical role of judicial oversight in maintaining a fair electoral process.