INDEFINITE SUSPENSION OF EKITI EAST 1 STATE CONSTITUENCY BYE-ELECTION
The Commission has received a report from the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State that the bye-election to fill the vacancy for the Ekiti East 1 State Constituency holding today, has been disrupted by violent attacks on voters, election officials and security personnel.
The Commission made adequate arrangements for the election. Personnel and materials arrived on time in all the 39 Polling Units spread across 5 Wards of the Constituency for the 23,670 registered voters to exercise their franchise in a free and fair process.
However, no sooner had voting commenced than unidentified gunmen unleashed mayhem at some Polling Units, thereby disrupting the process.
Unfortunately, some innocent voters were shot dead, while a policeman, some INEC regular and ad hoc staff who sustained gunshot injuries during the melee are receiving medical attention.
This situation is unacceptable. In its avowed commitment to electoral integrity, the Commission has suspended the election indefinitely. To continue with the process will amount to rewarding bad behaviour. Security agencies are aware of this unfortunate situation and have commenced investigation.
The Commission commiserates with the innocent victims of this dastardly act and affront to our democracy.
Festus Okoye Esq.
National Commissioner and Chairman,
Information and Voter Education Committee
