In a significant development, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially declared the suspension of ongoing re-run elections in specific constituencies, citing disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials as the primary reasons. The affected areas include:
1. **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 reportedly carted away by hoodlums.
2. **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.
3. **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.
This decision by the Commission is in accordance with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022. Further measures for the affected constituencies will be announced following the Commission’s meeting scheduled for Monday.
INEC has called upon security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incidents, and the Commission has pledged to conduct a comprehensive interrogation of any breaches involving its officials.
**Sam Olumekun mni, National Commissioner & Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, issued the statement on Saturday, February 3, 2024.**
