This was disclosed in a press statement signed by INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Solomon A. Soyebi.
According to the Commission, the notice for verification was to have been issued on Tuesday based on its amended Timetable and Schedule of Activities over Melaye’s recall.
He stated the amendment of the timetable was made pursuant to the order of the Federal High Court Abuja which, in the suit filed by Senator Melaye to stop the process, which dismissed the Senator‘s action but ordered INEC to serve him personally at least two weeks to the commencement of the exercise to enable him prepare adequately for the verification.
“All attempts to serve the Senator have been futile as he has made himself unviable,” the commissioner said.
“The Bailiff of the High Court accompanied by INEC officials have visited the office of the Senator at the National Assembly and his residence on six occasions but found the office locked, while they were not able to gain access to him at his residence.
“On resumption of the Senate after its recess, the Senator refused to accept service of the documents. This was in the presence of several journalists and was widely reported.
“The commission then approached the court for substituted service but was directed to make further attempts to serve the Senator but when those failed, INEC returned to the court to pursue the request for substituted service but that it declined jurisdiction in view of the appeal by the Senator in the Court of Appeal.
“As a result of Senator Dino Melaye’s refusal to accept service of the petition, the Commission has not been able to proceed with the process as earlier scheduled, as service has become a condition precedent to continuing with the exercise.
“It has therefore decided that in line with its usual practice and in reference to the rule of law, it will await the outcome of the decision of the Appeal filed by the Senator.”
He declared that INEC would follow due process in its activities toward the recall of the senator, affirming that it has not chickened out of the recall process.
He also reiterated the commission’s determination to faithfully discharge all its constitutional and statutory duties and responsibilities, adding that it would not only be guided by the constitutional and statutory provisions, but also by the interpretations given by the courts.
“INEC does not have any interest whatsoever in the outcome of the Kogi West petition for recall.
“Its interest is limited to ensuring all electoral activities are undertaken in line with due process and without fear or favour. The Commission owes this duty to all Nigerians and is prepared to proceed in earnest once all legal issues are resolved,” the statement read.
