The Delta State House of Assembly has declared the seat of the lawmaker representing Udu State Constituency, Collins Egbetamah, vacant following his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Politics Nigeria reports that the decision was reached during plenary on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, after members of the House unanimously adopted a motion seeking the enforcement of constitutional provisions relating to party defection by serving lawmakers.
The motion was moved by the Majority Leader, Emeka Nwaobi, and seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Arthur Akpowowo. The session was presided over by the Speaker of the House, Emomotimi Guwor.
During proceedings, the House examined documents related to Egbetamah’s exit from the APC and his move to the NDC. Lawmakers agreed that the development triggered constitutional consequences under Section 109 of the 1999 Constitution.
Relying on Section 109(1)(g) and (2) of the Constitution, the Speaker formally declared the seat vacant and directed immediate action.
“Accordingly, this Honourable House is satisfied that the constitutional requirements under Section 109 of the Constitution have been fulfilled. Therefore, pursuant to Sections 109(1) and (2), I hereby declare the seat of the Honourable Member representing Udu State Constituency vacant with immediate effect,” Guwor stated.
Following the declaration, the Speaker instructed the Clerk of the House to notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant authorities of the Assembly’s decision.
He also urged the electoral body to begin the constitutional process required for the conduct of a by-election to fill the now-vacant seat, in line with Section 116(2) of the Constitution.
While presenting the motion, Nwaobi told lawmakers that official records before the House clearly showed that Egbetamah had left the APC and joined another political party while still holding office as a member of the Assembly.
He noted that Section 109(1)(g) of the Constitution is clear on the matter, stating that any lawmaker elected on the platform of a political party must vacate his seat if he defects to another party before the end of his tenure, except in situations recognised by law, including division within the party.
During the plenary, the Speaker also read Egbetamah’s resignation letter dated June 19, 2026.
In the letter, the lawmaker disclosed that he had officially resigned from the APC on April 30, 2026, citing personal political considerations and future ambitions as reasons for his decision.
He also appreciated the APC leadership and party stakeholders for the support and opportunities given to him during his time in the party.