INEC to ignore election results collation in constituencies with traces of violence

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it would henceforth stop the process of collating election results in constituencies marred by violence.

INEC chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, stated this at a meeting of Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) held over the weekend in Abuja, noting that the commission would no longer tolerate attacks on it personnel and invading of collation centres.

“Going forward, INEC has decided that although the Commission has no power under the law to cancel an election, it will not proceed with the process in any constituency where the safety of voters, our personnel and materials is threatened.

“Furthermore, collation of results will not proceed where the collation centres are invaded. No declaration of winners will be made where Returning Officers are threatened,” Mahmood said.

Iwok Iniobong

With years of experience in Nigerian journalism, Iniobong Iwok has built a reputation for deep political insight, compelling storytelling, and consistent, fact-driven reporting. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience reporting and writing incisive political analysis. Iniobong has interviewed key political figures across Nigeria and covered major national events, including the 2019 and 2023 general elections. A versatile journalist, he also has strong experience in education reporting and sector analysis. His work reflects a deep commitment to good governance and public accountability. Iniobong holds a B.Sc. in Sociology from the University of Ilorin and an M.Sc. in Sociology (Development Specialisation) from Lagos State University.