The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the suspension of ongoing rerun elections in specific constituencies in Enugu, Kano, and Akwa Ibom States.
The decision, attributed to disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials, affects Enugu South 1 State Constituency in Enugu State, Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State, and Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano State.
INEC’s National Commissioner & Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, conveyed the decision in a statement on Saturday. The suspension follows reports of thuggery and the hijacking of electoral materials in these states.
In Enugu South 1 Constituency, elections were suspended in all eight Polling Units where the original result sheets were unavailable for inspection before the polls.
Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, elections were halted in two Polling Units due to the carting away of all election materials by hoodlums.
For Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano State, INEC suspended elections in all ten Polling Units in Kunchi LGA, citing invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs.
INEC emphasized that its decision aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022. Further measures for the affected constituencies will be announced after the Commission’s meeting on Monday.
Okay.ng gathered that security agencies have been invited to investigate the incidents, and INEC vows to thoroughly scrutinize any breaches involving its officials.
This development comes amid INEC conducting bye and re-run elections in 80 Local Government Areas across 26 states, aiming to fill vacancies in senatorial districts and federal and state constituencies.
The electoral body, grappling with challenges in specific constituencies, underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring fair and transparent elections.
