The Federal High Court in Abuja has removed Abubakar Gummi, who represented Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency of Zamfara State, from the House of Representatives for defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The judgment, delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, was based on the violation of Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which forbids lawmakers from switching political parties without a valid reason.
The court ruled that Gummi’s move to the APC had no constitutional backing since there was no division in the PDP when he left. As a result, the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, was ordered not to recognize him as a member of the House. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was also instructed to organize a fresh election within 30 days to fill the vacant seat.
The case was filed by the PDP and its Zamfara State Chairman, Jamilu Jibomagayaki, who argued that Gummi’s defection breached the party’s mandate and the nation’s laws.
Gummi, however, claimed he left the PDP due to internal problems that affected his representation. But the court rejected his explanation, ruling that the reasons given did not justify his defection under the law.
Justice Egwuatu condemned the frequent act of politicians switching parties, describing it as harmful to democratic growth. The judge further directed Gummi to refund all salaries and allowances he had received from October 2024 until the date of the ruling. He was also given 30 days to show proof of payment.
Additionally, the court imposed a fine of ₦500,000 against Gummi in favour of the PDP and other plaintiffs.