JUST IN: INEC suspends re-run elections in Enugu South, Kunchi/Tsanyawa, Ikono/Ini
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended the ongoing re-run elections in Enugu South, Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom and Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano due to abduction of election officials.
INEC in a statement by its National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, a copy obtained by Thefrontrank, also attributed the suspension to irregularities and disruption of the elections.
The statement reads: “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announces the suspension of ongoing re-run elections in specific constituencies due to disruptions, irregularities and abduction of election officials.
“The affected areas are as follows: Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State: 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.
“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: Suspension of elections in all ten Polling Units in Kunchi LGA due to invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs.
“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.
“INEC invites the security agencies to investigate the incidents, while the Commission commits to thoroughly interrogating any breaches involving its officials.”