Contrary to hitch-free polls promised the nation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), yesterday’s elections were hallmarked by violence, failure of smartcard readers and late arrival of materials at many polling units across the country. Late commencement of accreditation/voting, inadequate materials in some areas, as well as deserting of polling booths by ad hoc staff also added to the organisational blunders recorded by INEC.
The low turnout of voters at some polling units and snatching of ballot boxes by uniformed men, the destruction of ballots already cast, by hoodlums in opponents’ strongholds in Lagos, as well as general brigandage completed the picture of bedlam.
Rivers State, which was adjudged by bookmakers one of the flash points lived up to expectation as at least eight persons, including a soldier were feared killed in the violence that engulfed parts of the state during the presidential and National Assembly (NASS) elections.
In various parts of the state there were reported incidents of sporadic gunshots, snatching of election materials and general voter apathy. Before voting commenced, unknown gunmen invaded the residence of an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Mowan Etete, in Asarama, Andoni Council Area, killing him and his cousin. Read more