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Published on 2024-02-04 13:32:35
The Yobe state bye-election has been plagued by a Boko Haram terrorist attack that resulted in the deaths of two individuals. According to reports, Boko Haram disrupted the activities of voters and officials at the election collation centre located at Kuareta along the Damaturu-Maiduguri road, which is approximately 20 kilometers from Damaturu, the state capital. Major-General Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), the Yobe state security adviser, confirmed the attack, which occurred during the collation of results for the Yobe East Senatorial bye-election conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The terrorist group reportedly infiltrated the collation centre, leading to a violent confrontation with security personnel. Additionally, the Boko Haram terrorists burnt down the house of the District Head of Kurareta community during the attack. Meanwhile, Major-Gen. Abdulsalam (Rtd) reassured the residents of Damaturu that the state capital remains safe despite the unfortunate incident.
The Yobe bye-election took place with 4,613,291 individuals who possess their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) participating in the electoral process. The bye-elections were organized to fill vacancies in the national and state assemblies caused by the death or resignation of members. The affected states include Ebonyi, Yobe, Kebbi, Lagos, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, Borno, Kaduna, Plateau, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Cross River, Delta, Enugu, Jigawa, Katsina, Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Kano, Nasarawa, Niger, Oyo, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
In a separate incident, during the Plateau re-election, voters in Rock Haven, Jos North LGA of Plateau state held election officials hostage at polling unit 052. The voters took drastic action due to the limited availability of ballot papers, accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of attempting to compromise the election.
It is evident that the security of electoral processes in Nigeria is a matter of concern, especially in regions affected by terrorist activities. The attack on the Yobe state bye-election collation centre is a disturbing testament to the challenges faced by the electoral process in the country.
The disrupted electoral process in Yobe state is not only a setback for the democratic system but also a tragic loss of lives. Efforts are needed to ensure that such incidents do not recur in future electoral activities. It is crucial to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process and guarantee the safety and security of all citizens who participate in the democratic exercise. Peace and stability are imperative for the success of democratic governance in Nigeria.
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