Guber Election: Inec Expresses Concerns Over Insecurity In Imo, Kogi

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed concerns over the increasing levels of violence and insecurity in Kogi and Imo States.

The commission’s National Commissioner Mallam Mohammed Kudu Haruna described this situation as "unacceptable, unnecessary, and most worrisome." [caption id="attachment_11434" align="alignnone" width="750"] INEC worried about insecurity in Imo, Kogi. Photo: Punch[/caption] He emphasised that such violence could deter potential voters from participating in elections. Haruna specifically mentioned the violent nature of the political campaigns in Kogi State, deeming it unfortunate. He called on political leaders and citizens to work together to ensure free, fair, and credible elections. Haruna pointed out that if the current insecurity continues, it may discourage people from coming out to vote on election day. He noted that INEC is already facing challenges in recruiting ad-hoc staff for the upcoming elections. Haruna mentioned that INEC has made significant progress in preparing for off-cycle elections in Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa States. Non-sensitive materials have been delivered, and the production of sensitive materials is complete, The Nation reports. INEC is making efforts to improve access for persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups in the electoral process. This includes providing braille ballot papers, magnifying glasses, and enlarged posters for voters with various impairments. Priority voting for vulnerable groups is also being integrated into the voting procedure. The workshop was organised to educate media executives about the guidelines, processes, and procedures for the gubernatorial election scheduled for November 11, 2023, in Imo State. The Imo Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Sylvia U. Agu, called for media cooperation and encouraged eligible voters to participate in the poll. Earlier, INEC, denied claims that it refused to let political parties who had been wronged examine election documents as the Appeal Court had instructed. Festus Okoye, the National Commissioner for Information and Voter Education for INEC, provided the clarification on Sunday during a guest appearance on Arise TV.