The Independent National Electoral Commission has announced the suspension of ongoing re-run elections in Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State, Enugu South 1 State Constituency, Enugu State, and Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency, Kano State, citing disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials.

Sam Olamekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, conveyed this decision in a statement released on Saturday.

Olamekun underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, “The decision of the Commission aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022. Further necessary measures for the affected constituencies will be announced after the Commission’s meeting on Monday.”

He called upon security agencies to investigate the incidents, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

In providing details about the specific constituencies affected, Olamekun outlined the reasons for the suspension:

“In Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State, elections in two polling units (Village Hall, EdemUrua 003 in Ini LGA and Village Hall Mbiabong Ikot Udo 003 in Ikono LGA) were suspended after all election materials were carted away by hoodlums.”

“In Enugu South 1 State Constituency, Enugu State, elections in all eight polling units were suspended due to the unavailability of original result sheets for inspection by voters before the polls commenced.”

“Similarly, in Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency, Kano State, elections in all ten polling units in Kunchi LGA were suspended following invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs.”

The Commission reiterated its commitment to thoroughly investigate any breaches involving its officials and urged security agencies to probe the incidents promptly.