Amidst the Gubernatorial election in Kogi State today, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended election in nine (9) wards of Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area of the State.
According to INEC, the voting exercise was called off as a result of electoral misconduct.
“The Commission has received reports from our officials in Kogi State on incidences of electoral malpractices, particularly the incident of result sheets completed before voting.
“Reports indicate that the incidents occurred in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi and Okene Local Government Areas. The most serious incidents occurred in Ogori/Magongo, affecting nine of 10 Registration Areas,” INEC stated.
It condemned the acts, adding that the result from the affected areas will be voided, while others are being reviewed.
“This is entirely unacceptable. Any result not emanating from the Commission’s process in the Polling Units will not be accepted. The Commission is determined not to reward bad behaviour.
“Consequently, the election in the nine Wards in Ogori/Magongo LGA (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and Oturu) is at this moment suspended. The incidences in the other Local Government Areas are being thoroughly investigated, and the outcome, including the way forward, will be announced in the next 24 hours.”
INEC disclosed that findings will be made to identify those involved in downplaying the electoral process.
“Meanwhile, as the processes continue, we follow the audit trail of personnel and materials to ascertain those who may have been complicit in undermining the process. We have a record of all officials deployed at various levels as supervisors, monitors, technical staff or polling unit officials and all election materials issued to them. Appropriate sanctions will be applied where necessary.”
Similarly, the Commission assured voters in Kogi State that their votes will be protected – and their wishes will be respected.
