The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that a fresh election will be held in some locations in Kogi State, Nigeria, on Saturday 18th November 2023. The decision comes after INEC found that result sheets had been completed before voting began in the affected areas.
A statement by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, a National Commissioner & Member of the Information and Voter Education Committee on Sunday said the most critical incident occurred in nine out of 10 wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA). INEC also received reports of similar and other incidents in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Okehi and Okene LGAs.
Results from the affected polling units have been accounted for in Form EC40G for the four LGAs. However, in the case of Ogori/Magongo LGA, only the result of Oshobane Ward II with eight polling units and 2,264 registered voters has been collated. Election in the other nine wards (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and Oturu) involving 59 polling units and 15,136 registered voters remains suspended.
INEC’s 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 INEC’s 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.
INEC has reiterated its assurances to voters in Kogi State that their votes will continue to count and their wishes respected.
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