The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended ongoing rerun elections in specific constituencies across Enugu, Kano, and Akwa Ibom States. The decision comes in response to disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials in the affected areas.
The constituencies affected by the suspension include Enugu South 1 State Constituency in Enugu State, Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State, and Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano State, as disclosed in a statement signed by Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner & Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
INEC had earlier expressed concerns over cases of thuggery and the hijacking of electoral materials in these states, prompting heightened monitoring efforts.
According to the electoral body, the decision to suspend elections in Enugu South 1 Constituency was made due to disruptions in all eight polling units where original result sheets were unavailable for inspection by voters before polls commenced.
In Akwa Ibom State, INEC noted that elections were suspended in two polling units (Village Hall, EdemUrua 003 in Ini LGA and Village Hall Mbiabong Ikot Udo 003 in Ikono LGA) where hoodlums reportedly carted away all election materials.
For Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano State, INEC reported that elections were suspended in all ten polling units in Kunchi LGA due to invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs.
The decision aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022, according to INEC. Further measures for the affected constituencies will be announced after the Commission’s meeting on Monday.
INEC has called on security agencies to investigate the incidents, emphasizing its commitment to thoroughly interrogating any breaches involving its officials.
