INEC suspends re-run elections in Enugu South, Kunchi/Tsanyawa over irregularities

 INEC suspends re-run elections in Enugu South, Kunchi/Tsanyawa over irregularities

Joel Oladele

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the suspension of ongoing re-run elections in specific constituencies due to disruptions, irregularities and abduction of election officials. 

According to a statement signed by the  INEC National Commissioner & Chairman,

Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun mni, the affected areas are; Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State, 

Enugu South 1 State Constituency, Enugu State and Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency, Kano State.

Olumekun noted that the step became necessary for reasons ranging from election materials being carted away to invasion and vandalization by thugs.

 At Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State, INEC  that the “Suspension of elections in two Polling Units (Village Hall, EdemUrua 003 in Ini LGA and Village Hall Mbiabong Ikot Udo 003 in Ikono LGA) where all election materials were carted away by hoodlums.” 

For Enugu South 1 State Constituency, Enugu State ; “Suspension of elections in all eight Polling Units where the original results sheets were not available for inspection by voters before the commencement of polls.

 Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency, Kano State, INEC noted that the “Suspension of elections in all ten Polling Units in Kunchi LGA due to invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs,” INEC said.

Speaking further, Olumekun said the decision of the Commission aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022. Further necessary measures for the affected constituencies will be announced after the Commission’s meeting on Monday.

He therefore invited the security agencies to investigate the incidents, while the Commission commits to thoroughly interrogating any breaches involving its officials.