INEC Assures Public On Integrity Of Election Materials Amidst Attack Claims In Edo

INEC Assures Public On Integrity Of Election Materials Amidst Attack Claims In Edo

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured that its election materials at the Oredo Local Government office in Edo State remain secure, despite reports of an attempted theft by hoodlums.

According to reports, thugs attacked the office shortly after the materials arrived from the Central Bank branch in Benin City, the state capital, on Thursday.

PREMIUM TIMES noted that the distribution of materials from the CBN in Benin City began around noon for all 18 local governments in the state.

During a visit to the office on Friday, accompanied by the YIAGA Africa team, it was observed that security personnel had blocked one lane of the highway in front of the building, with police roadblocks allowing only vehicles carrying officials to pass. This situation has led to significant traffic congestion along Ekewuan Road, as motorists are restricted to a single lane.

N.S. Osakue, the assistant electoral officer for the local government, confirmed that all election materials are secure. “People came, they were on their own, and we are on our own. Our materials are intact,” she stated, choosing not to comment on the attack. She emphasized that there is a designated channel for media communication. “Our Public Affairs Department is the only one authorized to speak to the media,” she added.

Nnamdi Aduba, a member of the YIAGA team, suggested that INEC should take a more proactive approach in disseminating information to ease public concerns. “People who know you will feel anxious when they hear news of the attack. Sometimes, your superiors may not grasp the situation’s implications,” he remarked.

PREMIUM TIMES attempted to reach INEC spokesperson Sam Olumekun for comment, but he did not respond to calls or messages.

Regarding INEC’s preparedness, Mrs. Osakue stated that the commission is fully equipped for the election, even in the event of rain, which has been prevalent in some areas. “The commission provided us with tarpaulins. We are ready for the election despite the rain forecast; every September election typically coincides with the rainy season. The 2012 election was conducted amid heavy rain,” she explained.

Oredo Local Government Area has been identified as a hotspot by YIAGA Africa, along with Ikpoba/Okha, Egor, Ovia South West, Ovia North East, Esan South East, Etsako West, and Etsako East.