Ekiti killings: INEC suspend constituency by-elections indefinitely

By Laraba Ajibda

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has suspended indefinitely by-elections into the Ekiti State constituency seat, following the incidents that led death of three persons while three others sustained gunshot wounds.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Dr. Tella Adeniran, in a statement, on Saturday which was obtained by CAPITAL POST, said, “the situation is such that, a conducive environment no longer exists for further electoral activity at the PUs and the collation centers.

“In view of this development, the Commission has suspended the election forthwith.”

According to him, “the Ekiti East State Constituency 1 bye-election which started at 8.30 a.m. today
witnessed 100% opening of polls at 8.30 a.m.

“The exercise commenced on a good note in a peaceful and orderly manner.

“However, at about 10.00 a.m, there were reported cases of violence in two (2) PUs of ward 09 (Obadore); polling unit 8 (Baba Egbe house/Odouro/Odoule) and polling unit 9 (Beside Baba Egbe/Odouru/Odoule)
Polling unit 07 (Aro street/Aro) of ward 07 (Obadore l).In PU 07, ward 07 three (3) voters were shot dead while a youth corper, a police woman and an INEC staff sustained gunshot wounds.”

He added that, “under this circumstance, the safety of electoral officials, security personnel and
election materials as well as the credibility of the process cannot be guaranteed.

“It is unfortunate that in spite of the effort of the Commission in giving Nigerians free, fair, credible and inclusive election, some people appear to be unprepared for an
improved electoral process.

He disclosed that, “the State Commissioner of Police is fully aware of the situation.

Among the casualties are a policewoman, National Youth Corper, voters and an INEC staff.