The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Saturday suspended the bye-election into the vacant Ekiti East 1 State Constituency seat after reports of violent attacks.
The electoral body disclosed its decision to suspend the bye-election through a situation report via it’s official twitter page.
Control TV identified Ward 7, Unit 7 Iworo in Omuo Ekiti as one of the places unidentified gunmen unleashed mayhem during the voting exercise, killing three and injuring several others.
READ ALSO: Fayemi Condemns Violence In Ekiti East Constituency 1 Bye-election
The INEC spokesperson, Festus Okoye, in reaction to the unfortunate development, also confirmed the death of some voters while saying “some INEC regular and ad hoc staff who sustained gunshot injuries during the melee are receiving medical attention.”
According to the commission, the violence caused by unknown gunmen started not long after the commencement of the voting exercise in various polling units.
READ ALSO: JUST IN: Gunmen Attack Benue Governor’s Convoy
“This situation is unacceptable. In its avowed commitment to electoral integrity, the Commission has suspended the election indefinitely. To continue with the process will amount to rewarding bad behavior. The security agencies are aware of this unfortunate situation and have commenced investigation.
“The Commission commiserates with the innocent victims of this dastardly act and affront to our democracy,” the commission concluded.
The Ekiti state governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi has also condemned the violent act, and also promised to bring the culprits to justice.
Breaking News
Situation Report on Ekiti East State Constituency 1 Bye-Election pic.twitter.com/4gzqZciChS
— INEC Nigeria (@inecnigeria) March 20, 2021
© ControlTV 2021.
