The Federal High Court in Abuja has sacked Hon. Abubakar Gummi as the representative of Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency in Zamfara State for defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Delivering judgment on Thursday, Justice Obiora Egwuatu barred the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, from recognising Gummi as a sitting lawmaker and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh election within 30 days.
The case, filed by the PDP and its state chairman, Jamilu Jibomagayaki, argued that Gummi’s defection was unconstitutional since there was no division in the PDP to justify his move. The plaintiffs cited Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates that a legislator loses their seat if they defect before the end of their tenure.
In his defence, Gummi claimed he left the PDP because of internal crises that made it difficult for him to effectively represent his constituents.
However, Justice Egwuatu dismissed his argument, ruling that “politicians should respect the wishes of the electorates that elected them into office.” He condemned the frequent practice of defection, calling it “political prostitution” that should not be rewarded.
The court further ordered Gummi to stop receiving salaries and allowances as a House member and to refund all payments received since October 30, 2024. Proof of the refund must be filed in court within 30 days.
Additionally, the judge awarded N500,000 in costs against Gummi in favour of the PDP and its chairman.
