The Independent National Electoral Commission,INEC on Saturday suspended voting in the Ekiti State House of Assembly Bye-Election following violence that erupted leading to the death of at least two persons and several injured.
A statement signed by INEC National Commissioner, Festus Okoye, said the “voters, election officials and security personnel” were attacked prompting the commission to suspend voting.
The election was held to fill the vacancy for the Ekiti East 1 State Constituency.
“The Commission made adequate arrangements for the election. Personnel and materials arrived on time in all the 39 Polling Units spread across 5 Wards of the Constituency for the 23,670 registered voters to exercise their franchise in a free and fair process,” the INEC statement said.
“However, no sooner had voting commenced than unidentified gunmen unleashed mayhem at some Polling Units, thereby disrupting the process.
“Unfortunately, some innocent voters were shot dead, while a policeman, some INEC regular and ad hoc staff who sustained gunshot injuries during the melee are receiving medical attention.
“This situation is unacceptable. In its avowed commitment to electoral integrity, the Commission has suspended the election indefinitely. To continue with the process will amount to rewarding bad behavour. The security agencies are aware of this unfortunate situation and have commenced investigation.
“The Commission commiserates with the innocent victims of this dastardly act and affront to our democracy.”
