Following a statement issued yesterday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has provided an update on the suspension of elections in certain locations in Kogi State. The suspension primarily stems from instances where result sheets were completed before the actual commencement of voting. Notably, the most critical incident unfolded in nine out of 10 Wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA).
Similar incidents were reported in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Okehi, and Okene, involving a total of 16 Polling Units across various wards. While results from the affected Polling Units have been duly recorded, the situation in Ogori/Magongo LGA remains unique. Only the results from Oshobane Ward II, encompassing eight Polling Units and 2,264 registered voters, have been collated. However, elections in the other nine wards, comprising 59 Polling Units and 15,136 registered voters, remain suspended.
In adherence to Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Clause 59 of INEC Regulations and Guidelines on the Conduct of Elections 2022, the Commission has decided to conduct fresh elections in the affected Polling Units on Saturday, November 18, 2023. The determination of the application of the Margin of Lead Principle by the Returning Officer will influence this decision.
INEC emphasizes that the decision to hold fresh elections does not compromise its commitment to investigating any potential complicity in undermining the electoral process. The Commission assures voters in Kogi State that their voices will continue to be heard, and their votes will be respected.
