By JOHN ONAH, Abuja-
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) head office in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State has been reportedly set ablazed by unknown arsonists.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the state, Professor Francis Ezeonu, confirmed the incident in a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday evening.
Professor Eze disclosed that no life was lost but the building was substantially burnt down, along with electoral materials, office equipment and furniture.
According to him: “This latest incident has been reported to the Police for investigation”.
“This attack is coming exactly a week after our office in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area of the State was vandalized on Sunday 23rd May 2021. It is also the 8th INEC office to be attacked in Imo State since the 2019 General Election”.
In a statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of the Commission, Gratis Okoye, the total number of INEC offices attacked nationwide since 2019 has now risen to 42.
“INEC buildings, infrastructure and equipment are critical national assets that guarantee the continuity of electoral activities throughout the federation. Attacking these offices is not in the national interest and has the capacity of compromising electoral activities and the credibility of the democratic process”, the statement said.
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