Khadijat Ameen
Kogi
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has suspended election held in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi and Okene Local Government Areas as a result of electoral malpractices.
The Commission in a statement by the National Commissioner & Member, information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna said the most affected of the areas is Ogori/Magongo, with 9 out of 10 Registration Areas.
He said, "Reports from its 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."
" This is entirely unacceptable. Any result not emanating from the Commission's process in the Polling Units will not be accepted, "he added.
He however reiterate INEC commitment to hold on to ethics and ensure a free and credible process.
" 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."
"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," he disclosed.
Haruna however assured voters in Kogi State of protection of their votes and assures that their wishes will be respected.
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