Update On Election Suspension In Select Kogi State Areas
Following our previous statement, our Kogi State office provides an update on the suspended elections in locations where result sheets were finalized before voting commenced. The most significant incident occurred in nine out of 10 Wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA).
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 affected Polling Units are documented in Form EC40G for the four LGAs.
However, in Ogori/Magongo LGA, only Oshobane Ward II results with eight Polling Units and 2,264 registered voters have 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. Pursuant to 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 is scheduled for Saturday, November 18, 2023, in the affected Polling Units.
The decision for fresh elections is contingent on the Returning Officer's application of the Margin of Lead Principle. However, this decision doesn't compromise our commitment to investigating personnel and materials' audit trail to identify any complicity in undermining the process, applying necessary sanctions.
The Commission reassures Kogi State voters that their votes will count, and their wishes will be respected.
Mohammed Kudu Haruna
National Commissioner & Member
Information and Voter Education Committee
Sunday, November 12, 2023
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