#EdoDecides2024: INEC warns politicians against disruption of results collation

The Independent National Electoral Commission has issued a stern warning to political actors in Edo State, urging them to avoid any attempts to disrupt the collation of gubernatorial election results.

Following reports of rising tensions and protests at INEC’s headquarters after the conclusion of the elections on Saturday, INEC’s National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, condemned the actions of some political figures as inappropriate.

In a statement on Sunday, Haruna stressed that the collation process would proceed as scheduled, in full compliance with the Electoral Act 2022.

Haruna reassured the public that the collation of results from polling units and wards was already underway, with results successfully uploaded for review.

He expressed concern about a recent incident involving threats to INEC’s office in Okpoba Okha Local Government Area, which caused a stampede, injuring one official. He further criticised the demonstrations by political actors at INEC’s state headquarters, declaring such actions uncalled for and unacceptable.

“We are similarly disturbed by the overnight presence and demonstrations by some political actors and their supporters at our State Head Office ahead of the commencement of the final collation. These actions are uncalled for. Nobody should disrupt the process at any stage, and no one will be allowed to benefit from lawlessness,” Haruna stated.

Haruna also stressed that INEC has mechanisms for addressing complaints during the collation process, including the power to review results declared under duress. He assured that accredited party agents, observers, and the media would have unimpeded access to all collation centres and called on security agencies to maintain their professionalism in securing the finalisation of the results.

“There is a mechanism for redressing complaints during collation, including the power to review results declared under duress. The Commission will not hesitate to invoke such powers where necessary. Accredited party agents, observers, and the media should be granted unimpeded access to all collation centres.

“The Commission calls on the security agencies to continue maintaining the same vigilance and professionalism that ensured the peaceful conduct of the election as we conclude the process,” he added.