By Daniel Edu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) revealed on Sunday its decision to conduct new polls in 59 polling units located in the Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to INEC, the fresh elections are scheduled for Saturday, November 18, 2023, as stated by Mohammed Haruna, a National Commissioner at INEC, in a statement released on Sunday night.
Haruna explained, “Following our statement yesterday, we have received an update from our Kogi State office regarding the suspension of elections in certain locations in the State where result sheets were completed before the start of voting. The most significant incident occurred in nine out of 10 Wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA).”
He continued, “Similar incidents were reported in Adavi (5 Polling Units in Okunchi/Ozuri/Onieka Ward), Ajaokuta (5 Polling Units in Adogo Ward), Okehi (1 Polling Unit in Eika/Ohizenyi Ward), and Okene (5 Polling Units in Obehira Uvete Ward). Results from the affected Polling Units have been documented in Form EC40G for the four LGAs.”
“However, in the case of Ogori/Magongo LGA, only the result of Oshobane Ward II, comprising eight Polling Units and 2,264 registered voters, has been collated. Elections 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 accordance with Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Clause 59 of INEC Regulations and Guidelines on the Conduct of Elections 2022, a fresh election will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, in the affected Polling Units.”
Haruna added, “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 the audit trail of personnel and materials to ascertain those who may have been complicit in undermining the process and apply appropriate sanctions where necessary.”
“The Commission wishes to reiterate its assurances to voters in Kogi State that their votes will continue to count, and their wishes respected.”
