TheCable

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended electoral processes in Rivers state as a result of violence.

Festus Okoye, director of information and voter education committee, said reports from its officials on the field showed that the election was marred by widespread disruption.

He said many officials of the commission were held hostage while electoral materials were seized.

“These initial reports suggest that violence occurred in a substantial number of polling units and collation centers,” the statement read.

“Staff have been taken hostage and materials including result sheets have either been seized or destroyed by unauthorised persons.

“In addition, safety of our staff appears to be in jeopardy all over the state and the Commission is concerned about the credibility of the process.

“Consequently, at a meeting held on 10th March 2019, the Commission has decided to suspend all electoral processes in the State until further notice. This is in line with Section 26 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) and Clause 47 (e) of the Regulations and Guidelines of the Commission.”

INEC added that it had established a fact-finding committee to access the situation and report back in 48 hours.