In a bold move, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended the ongoing election in certain locations across Kogi State following reported incidents of electoral malpractices. The primary concern revolves around the completion of result sheets before the commencement of voting, a breach of the established electoral protocol.
Reports from INEC officials in Kogi State pinpointed incidents in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi, and Okene Local Government Areas. Notably, the most egregious transgressions were identified in Ogori/Magongo, impacting nine out of ten Registration Areas.
Expressing unwavering disapproval, the Commission firmly declared that any result not originating from its prescribed processes at the Polling Units would be deemed unacceptable. Determined not to condone such misconduct, INEC promptly suspended the election in the nine Wards of Ogori/Magongo LGA, including Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben, and Oturu.
Simultaneously, investigations into incidents in other Local Government Areas are underway, and the Commission pledges to announce the outcome, along with the way forward, within the next 24 hours.
As the investigative processes unfold, INEC is meticulously tracing the audit trail of personnel and materials to identify any complicity in undermining the electoral process. A comprehensive record of all officials deployed at various levels, including supervisors, monitors, technical staff, and polling unit officials, along with the materials issued to them, is at the forefront of the inquiry. Appropriate sanctions will be applied where deemed necessary.
Assuring the voters of Kogi State, INEC emphasizes that their votes are safeguarded, and their democratic choices will be duly respected. As this situation develops, further updates will be communicated by the Commission.
