BREAKING: INEC indefinitely suspends electoral processes in Rivers over widespread disruptions
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended the electoral process in Rivers State.
The INEC in a release posted on his Twitter handle on Sunday disclosed that electoral processes in the state were suspended because of widespread disruption of elections conducted on the Saturday 9 March 2019.
According to the statement also obtained by The DEFENDER, INEC said: “These intiail reports suggest that violence occurred in a substantial number of polling units and collation centres, staff have been taken hostage and materials including result sheets have either been seized or destroyed by unauthorized persons.
“In addition, safety of our staff appears to be in jeopardy all over the state and the Commission is concerned about the credibility of the process,” it explained.
He continued, “Consequently, at a meeting held today 10th March 2019, the Commission has decided to suspend all electoral processes in the State until further notice,” adding that, “This is in line with Section 26 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) and Clause 47(e) of the Regulations and Guidelines of the Commission.”
It said, “The Commission has also established a Fact-Finding Committee to assess the situation and report back within 48 hours. We appeal to the people of Rivers State, particularly the voters, for their understanding as we look into the circumstances of these disruptions and what further action needs to be taken.”
