The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria has suspended the voting process in several areas of Kogi State following reports of widespread electoral malpractice. The most severe incidents took place in Ogori/Magongo, where nine of the ten Registration Areas were implicated.
National Commissioner & Member Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna disclosed in a press statement that the Commission received reports from our officials in Kogi State on incidences of electoral malpractices, particularly the incident of result sheets completed before voting.
The Kogi State election, which commenced today, has been marred by allegations of result sheets being completed prior to the voting process. The local government areas affected include Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi, and Okene.
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.
"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." he stated
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.
The Commission assures voters in Kogi State that their votes are protected, and their wishes will be respected.
