2023 Polls: INEC Cancels Elections After Staff Abduction In Imo

Following the abduction of several electoral officers, the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) has reportedly postponed the governorship and state assembly elections taking place in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State.

It would be recalled that 17 ad-hoc staff members of INEC were on Saturday morning abducted, which raised serious concerns about the safety and security of election officials and the integrity of the election process.

While the officials were eventually rescued by security operatives, it was gathered that the attackers made away with materials meant for the election.

An official who pleaded anonymity told the Whistler that the development left INEC in the state with no option but to suspend voting in the affected LGA.

According to the source, the officials were abducted from their polling stations in remote areas barely hours after voting officially commenced.

The gunmen reportedly overpowered and forced the officials into waiting vehicles before speeding off, thereby sending shockwaves across the area.