The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has given update from its Kogi State office regarding suspension of election in some locations in the State where result sheets were completed before the commencement of the voting.
According to the statement released by the Commission on Sunday, stated that the most critical incident occurred in nine out of 10 Wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA) while received reports of similar and other incidents in Adavi (5 Polling Units in Okunchi/Ozuri/Onieka Ward).
The Commission also mentioned the Ajaokuta (5 Polling Units in Adogo Ward), Okehi (1 Polling Unit in Eika/Ohizenyi Ward) and Okene (5 Polling Units in Obehira Uvete Ward), adding that the results from affected Polling Units have been accounted for in Form EC40G for the four LGAs.
It said, in the case of Ogori/Magongo LGA, only the result of Oshobane Ward II with eight Polling Units and 2,264 registered voters has been collated.
“Election in the other nine Wards (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and Oturu) involving 59 Polling Units and 15,136 registered voters remain suspended.
“In line with Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Clause 59 of INEC Regulations and Guidelines on the Conduct of Elections 2022, fresh election will be held on Saturday 18th November 2023 in the affected Polling Units”, the Commission said.
INEC noted that the decision to hold fresh elections is subject to the Returning Officer’s determination of the application of the Margin of Lead Principle.
“However, this decision is without prejudice to our avowed commitment to follow audit trail of personnel and materials to ascertain those who may have been complicit in undermining process and apply appropriate sanctions where necessary.
Adding that the Commission wishes to reiterate its assurances to voters in Kogi State that their votes will continue to count and their wishes respected.
Meanwhile, the Commission has declared Hope Uzodinma declared winner of Imo Governorship election as results announced by Professor Abayomi Fasina, the Returning officer of the election this morning November 12, 2023.
Uzodinma of the All Progressive Congress polled a total of 540, 308 votes to defeat his closest rival, People’s Democratic Party’s Emeka Anyanwu who polled a total of 71, 503 votes while Labour party’s Athan Achonu polled a total of 64, 081 votes.