Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken decisive action following the disappearance of ballot papers during Saturday’s rerun election in Plateau State.
Mr. Fred Ogboji, the Electoral Officer for Jos North Local Government Area, has been suspended pending a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the missing House of Representatives ballot papers in 16 polling units within his jurisdiction.
Mr. Isah Idakwo, the state Head of the Department of Electoral Operations, announced the suspension on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC). Ogboji has been directed to step aside to allow for an unbiased inquiry.
He stated, “You are directed to step aside from office to enable the commission to carry out a proper investigation into the circumstances that led to the missing House of Representatives ballot papers in 16 polling units in your local government area.
READ ALSO: INEC Denies Involvement in Enugu Rerun Election Fraud, Says Man Caught Not Employee
“You are further directed to hand over to Mr Elekwa Onyemauche, the local government supervisor, and the two registration area supervisors of Tudun Wada Kabong and Naraguta B to coordinate and complete the remaining process.”
This development comes after INEC was compelled to reschedule elections in 16 polling units within the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency due to the missing ballot papers.
Dr. Oliver Agundu, the state INEC REC, announced the postponement in a separate statement, detailing that the rescheduled election will now take place on Sunday, February 4th, with voting commencing at 9:30 am and closing at 3:30 pm.