The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political actors in Edo State, urging them to refrain from disrupting the collation of gubernatorial election results. This comes after reports of rising tensions and protests at INEC’s headquarters following Saturday’s elections.
In a statement on Sunday, INEC’s National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, condemned the actions of certain political figures as inappropriate. He emphasized that the collation process would proceed as planned, adhering strictly to the Electoral Act 2022.
Haruna assured the public that results from polling units and wards were already being collated and successfully uploaded for review. He expressed concern about an incident in Okpoba Okha Local Government Area, where threats to INEC’s office led to a stampede, injuring one official.
Haruna criticized overnight demonstrations by political actors and their supporters at INEC’s state headquarters, calling the actions “uncalled for and unacceptable.” He stressed that no one would be allowed to disrupt the process or benefit from lawlessness.
He also reiterated that INEC has mechanisms in place to address complaints during the collation process, including the power to review results declared under duress.
Haruna called on security agencies to maintain their professionalism as the election results are finalized. Accredited party agents, observers, and media will have full access to all collation centres, he added.
