POLITICS

INEC Suspends Kogi Election Amid Malpractices and Completed Result Sheets Before Voting

Published

6 months ago

November 11, 2023

Stella Charles Akupue

INEC, Kogi Election, Suspension, Electoral Malpractices

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken a drastic step by suspending the ongoing election in specific locations within Kogi State. The decision, announced by National Commissioner Mohammed Kudu Haruna, comes in response to reported malpractices, notably instances of completed result sheets before the actual voting process.

The suspension is particularly impactful in nine Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area wards. Haruna emphasized that results not originating from INEC’s prescribed polling unit process would be rejected outright. This stern stance is a response to the unacceptable incidents, especially in Ogori/Magongo, where nine out of ten registration areas were affected.

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Furthermore, incidents in other Local Government Areas (LGAs), including Adavi, Ajaokuta, Okehi, and Okene, are under thorough investigation. The Commission, determined not to reward electoral misconduct, assures voters that their ballots are safeguarded and their intentions will be duly respected.

As the investigation progresses, INEC meticulously traces the personnel and materials involved to identify any complicity in undermining the electoral process. Records of all officials deployed at various levels, including supervisors, monitors, technical staff, and polling unit officials, are being scrutinized. Appropriate sanctions will be applied where necessary.

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The Commission pledges transparency in the ongoing investigations. It assures the electorate in Kogi State that their votes remain protected, emphasizing a commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.