The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC Local Government Office in Essien Udim, Akwa Ibom state was on Sunday set ablaze by yet to be identified persons. The Resident Electoral Commissioner for the State, Bar. Mike Igini confirmed by incident.
In a statement released on Sunday 2nd May 2021, by the INEC National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, stated that the incident at INEC Local Government Office in Akwa Ibom occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning.
He said the destruction to the building and properties was extensive as items destroyed in the fire include 345 ballot boxes, 135 voting machines, megaphone, water tanks and office furniture. He also said that security guards on duty escaped unhurt.
“The Police which has also been battling with attacks on its facilities and personnel in the area is aware of the incident and has commenced an investigation,” he said.
It will be recalled that on the eve of the 2019 general election the newly constructed prototype INEC Local Government office in Ibesikpo Asutan was burnt down, while two more offices in Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo Local Government Areas were bombed.
“The recent attack on our facility after we have just conducted the inventory of electoral materials nationwide in readiness of the 2023 general election is worrisome. If unchecked these attacks may constitute a setback on the commission’s preparedness including the ongoing conversion of Voting Points to Polling Units the forthcoming continuous registration of voters exercise and the conduct of polls.
Nevertheless, the commission wishes to assure Nigerians that the Commission will leave no stone unturned to recover from the incident in Akwa Ibom State as we continue to prepare for all electoral activities,” Festus Okoye added.