The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended collation of results in parts of Abia and Enugu states following its review of the Governorship election held Saturday.
The suspension affected Obingwa Local Government Area in Abia state and, Nsukka and Nkanu East local government areas of Enugu State.
Festus Okoye, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC disclosed this Monday afternoon.
The full text of the statement released shortly after a review meeting of the conduct of the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections reads below:
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“The Commission met today, Monday 20th March 2023 and reviewed the conduct of the Governorship and State Assembly elections held nationwide on Saturday 18th March 2023. Arising from the meeting, the Commission took the decision to suspend forthwith further collation of the Governorship election results in some parts of Abia and Enugu States.
“It will be recalled that our office in Obingwa Local Government Area was invaded by thugs yesterday Sunday 19th March 2023 and our officials held hostage in relation to the collation of results from the Local Government Area. Similarly, reports from Enugu State call for a review of the results for the Governorship election from the two outstanding Local Government Areas of Nsukka and Nkanu East.
“Consequently, the Commission hereby suspends the collation of results in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State and the two outstanding Local Government Areas of Enugu State which are yet to be collated. A review will be undertaken immediately before the process is concluded.
“We appeal for the understanding and patience of voters, parties and candidates in the affected States.”
