In response to the suspension of elections in certain locations in Kogi State due to completed result sheets before voting commenced, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) issued a press release. The most critical incident occurred in nine out of 10 Wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA). Similar incidents were reported in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Okehi, and Okene, and results from affected polling units were documented in Form EC40G for the four LGAs.
However, in Ogori/Magongo LGA, only the result of Oshobane Ward II has been collated, with elections in the other nine wards remaining suspended. In adherence to the Electoral Act 2022 and INEC Regulations and Guidelines, fresh elections are scheduled for Saturday, November 18, 2023, in the affected polling units.
The decision to conduct fresh elections is contingent on the Returning Officer's application of the Margin of Lead Principle. INEC emphasizes its commitment to investigating personnel and materials' audit trail to identify any complicity in undermining the process and apply appropriate sanctions. The commission reassures voters in Kogi State that their votes will be respected, emphasizing transparency and adherence to electoral guidelines.
