The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken the decision to suspend re-run elections in 20 polling units across Kano, Enugu, and Akwa-Ibom states. This decision comes as a response to reported irregularities, disruptions, and the abduction of election officials during the rerun and by-elections.
Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, made this announcement, highlighting the challenges faced by the commission in conducting seamless elections. Initially, the commission noted the prompt opening of polls and smooth accreditation processes in 8,934 polling units across 26 states involved in the bye-elections and re-run elections.
However, concerns arose as acts of thuggery and material hijacking were reported in certain locations in Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Kano states. In response to these disruptions, the suspension was deemed necessary to address the irregularities and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
The affected areas include Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State, where elections were suspended in two polling units due to the carting away of election materials by hoodlums. In Enugu South 1 State Constituency, elections were suspended in all eight polling units where the original result sheets were unavailable for voter inspection before the commencement of polls. Additionally, Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano State witnessed the suspension of elections in all ten polling units in Kunchi LGA due to invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs.
The decision to suspend aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022. INEC has called upon security agencies to investigate the incidents, pledging a thorough interrogation of any breaches involving its officials. Further decisions and measures for the affected constituencies will be announced following the Commission’s meeting on Monday.