INEC suspends election in Kogi over irregularities

INEC suspends election in Kogi over irregularities

Joel Oladele, Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the suspension of ongoing electoral processes in some Local Governments of Kogi State.

The Commission in a statement disclosed this in a statement signed on Saturday evening by its National Commissioner & Member Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

The electoral Umpire stated that the decision became imperative due to reported cases of irregularities, particularly the incident of result sheets completed before voting. 

“Reports indicate that the incidents occurred in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi and Okene Local Government Areas. The most serious incidents occurred in Ogori/Magongo, affecting nine of 10 Registration Areas.

“This is entirely unacceptable. Any result not emanating from the Commission’s process in the Polling Units will not be accepted.

“The Commission is determined not to reward bad behaviour. Consequently, the election in the nine Wards in Ogori/Magongo LGA (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and Oturu) is at this moment suspended. The incidences in the other Local Government Areas are being thoroughly investigated, and the outcome, including the way forward, will be announced in the next 24 hours.” INEC said.

The statement further noted that the Commission has commenced investigation to fish out those involved in the foul play and promised to bring them to book. 

“Meanwhile, as the processes continue, we follow the audit trail of personnel and materials to ascertain those who may have been complicit in undermining the process. We have a record of all officials deployed at various levels as supervisors, monitors, technical staff or polling unit officials and all election materials issued to them. Appropriate sanctions will be applied where necessary.

“The Commission assures voters in Kogi State that their votes are protected, and their wishes will be respected.”