The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cancelled the voting process in seven polling units of Kogi East senatorial district due to an attack by thugs who disrupted the polling units. The attack led to the sudden end of the voting in the areas, with two polling units being cancelled in Anyigba and the other five in the Omala community of the state.
One of the affected polling units was Unit 01, Abejukolo ward in Omala Local Government Area. It was reported that the thugs shot into the air and caused panic among the voters, leading to the cancellation of the voting exercise.
The cancellation of the seven polling units is a major setback for the voters in the affected areas who were eager to exercise their franchise in the ongoing election. This unfortunate incident highlights the challenges that INEC faces in ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair and credible in the face of violence and intimidation.
The cancellation of the polling units has also raised concerns about the potential for voter suppression in Kogi State, especially in the Omala community where five polling units were cancelled. It remains to be seen how this will impact the outcome of the election and whether the cancellation will have an effect on the overall result.
INEC has assured the public that it will investigate the attack and take appropriate measures to ensure that the election is conducted in a safe and secure environment. The Commission has also called on security agencies to ensure the safety of voters and electoral officials in the affected areas.
The cancellation of the polling units in Kogi State is a stark reminder of the need for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that the electoral process is peaceful, transparent and credible. INEC has a crucial role to play in ensuring that the election is conducted in accordance with the law and that the outcome reflects the will of the people.
As the election continues, it is important for INEC and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent any further disruptions to the electoral process. The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the ability of all stakeholders to work together to promote a peaceful and credible electoral process.