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Published on 2024-02-03 20:13:05
Operatives of the Kano state police command have arrested several suspected ballot box snatchers during the Kano State House of Assembly re-run election on Saturday, February 3. The Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Usaini Gumel, said the suspects were arrested with dangerous weapons to disrupt the elections in the Kunchi local government area of the state. As reported by The Nation, some youths reportedly snatched ballot boxes during the election in the Tsanyawa local government area.
Gumel said the thugs, arrested in possession of firearms, were hired by a politician contesting the election, Vanguard reported. He also mentioned that they are investigating whether the candidate had any knowledge of the actions of the hired thugs.
As a result of these disruptions and irregularities, INEC announced the suspension of the ongoing re-run elections in specific constituencies in Enugu, Kano, and Akwa Ibom states. The electoral body stated that the suspension was due to disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials. According to INEC National Commissioner & Chairman, Information, and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun mni, the decision to suspend the re-run election is in alignment with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022. The affected areas are as follows: Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom state with suspension of elections in two Polling Units. Enugu South 1 State Constituency, Enugu state with the suspension of elections in all eight Polling Units and Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency, Kano State with the suspension of elections in all ten Polling Units in Kunchi LGA.
The presence of the suspects with dangerous weapons and the reported incidents of ballot box snatching are clear indications of an attempt to disrupt the election process and undermine the will of the people. The actions of these criminals threaten the integrity of the democratic process and must be met with stern and appropriate legal action to ensure justice and uphold the democratic values of the nation.
It is essential for law enforcement agencies to strengthen their efforts in maintaining peace and order during any electoral process, and to conduct thorough investigations into any reported incidents, in order to bring the perpetrators to justice. Additionally, political parties and their candidates must adhere to the principles of fair competition and refrain from engaging in or condoning any form of violence, intimidation, or electoral malpractice in the pursuit of power.
The role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as an impartial and unbiased electoral body is crucial in ensuring free, fair, and credible elections. The decision to suspend the re-run elections in specific constituencies where disruptions and irregularities were reported demonstrates INEC’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of the electoral process and protecting the rights of the voters.
As citizens, it is vital to participate actively in the electoral process, to exercise our democratic rights, and to hold our leaders accountable for their actions. By staying informed, reporting any incidents of electoral malpractice, and supporting the efforts of law enforcement agencies and electoral bodies, we can contribute to the preservation of democracy and the advancement of our nation.
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