The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended re-run elections at 20 polling stations in Kano, Enugu, and Akwa-Ibom states.
Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, confirmed this in a statement on Saturday.
INEC has previously indicated that it was investigating election disturbances during the rerun and by-elections in Enugu, Akwa-Ibom, and Kano states.
“Generally, polls opened promptly and accreditation going on smoothly in the 8,934 polling units in 26 states involved in today’s bye-elections and re-run elections.
“However, we are monitoring reported disruption of processes by acts of thuggery and hijacking of materials in some locations in Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Kano states.” the commission earlier stated
However, in its latest updates, INEC stated that the suspension was a result of irregularities and abduction of election officials.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission 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 statement read in part.
The commission noted that the suspension “aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022,” urging security agencies to investigate the incidents.
