INEC Suspends Rerun Elections in Kano, Enugu, and Akwa Ibom Constituencies

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially halted the ongoing rerun elections in specific constituencies across Akwa Ibom, Kano, and Enugu states.

Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, conveyed this decision on Saturday, citing disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials as the primary reasons for the suspension.

The affected areas include:

Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State: Elections in two Polling Units (Village Hall, EdemUrua 003 in Ini LGA and Village Hall Mbiabong Ikot Udo 003 in Ikono LGA) have been suspended due to the brazen carting away of all election materials by hoodlums.

Enugu South 1 State Constituency, Enugu State: Elections in all eight Polling Units have been suspended because the original result sheets were unavailable for inspection by voters before the commencement of polls.

Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency, Kano State: Elections in all ten Polling Units in Kunchi LGA have been suspended owing to the invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs.

INEC had previously expressed concern over reports of hijacking and thuggery in these regions.

The decision to suspend the polls aligns with the provisions of section 24(3) of the Electoral Act 2022. The commission has indicated that further necessary measures for the affected constituencies will be announced following its meeting on Monday.

Furthermore, INEC has called upon security agencies to investigate the incidents, emphasizing its commitment to thoroughly scrutinizing any breaches involving its officials. The commission remains steadfast in its dedication to conducting free and fair elections in accordance with the electoral laws.