INEC expresses concerns over rising insecurity ahead of Imo, Kogi elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has expressed concerns over the rising level of violence and insecurity in Imo and Kogi states, saying the situation in the two states is not only “unacceptable, unnecessary and worrisome”, but can cause voters’ apathy.

The INEC National Commissioner and member Information and Voter Education Committee, IVEC, Mallam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, disclosed this at a one-day workshop organized for media executives in Owerri, by the electoral umpire.

Haruna said: “We have gone so far with our preparedness for the off-cycle elections in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa States.

“The Commission is truly worried about the growing level of insecurity and violence, in Kogi and Imo States. This is unacceptable, unnecessary and most worrisome.

“Campaigns in Kogi State, has been violent and this is most unfortunate. Our political gladiators and indeed, all citizens, must work towards ensuring free, fair and credible elections.

“It stands to reason that if this situation is allowed to continue, there is the likelihood that people will be afraid to come out to vote, on the election day.

“Already, INEC is having a shortfall in the number of ad-hoc staff needed to superintend over the forthcoming elections.”

Addressing what he called “electoral operations activities”, Haruna said: “All non-sensitive materials have been delivered to the three states, in required quantities and good quality.
“The production of sensitive materials has been completed and ready for delivery to the three states.”

Commenting on plans to give room to people living with disabilities, the INEC official said plans are ongoing to ensure their right to vote is not violated. He said: “The Commission has provided braille ballot papers for visually impaired voters, made available magnifying glasses for people with albinism and introduced enlarged posters, for voters with hearing impairment.“We have gone further to integrate into the voting procedure, a process that accords priority voting for persons living with disabilities, vulnerable people like the elderly, pregnant and nursing mothers.”

The gubernatorial polls in Edo State will take place on September 21, 2024, while that of Ondo State, South West Nigeria, will take place on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

The electoral umpire announced that a complete timeline and schedule of Activities for the two elections has been posted to its website and social media platforms.